Ashland Balloon Fest is a summer tradition that attracts many people and features over 28 pilots ready to celebrate life in the air. BalloonFest guarantees a family-friendly outing, offering something for everyone. Witness the vibrant Ashland skies adorned with hot air balloons, creating a memorable weekend experience.
Schedule of Events
At Ashland Balloon Fest, visitors can enjoy multiple ground-based activities, such as balloon glow, balloon races, and more. As the sky becomes darker, The Balloon Glow will be held, where the balloons are upright (static) and glow against the night sky, choreographed to music.
The balloon glow encounter can be purchased separately; it gives spectators an opportunity to come inside the launch field (where the balloons are standing) along with a souvenir & parking. Public balloon rides will not be available. Balloons fly around 7 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., weather permitting, and are subject to delay and/or cancellation.
Activities
Entertainment, live music, shows, library bookmobile, and an assortment of food vending are all part of the fun activities. The festival offers to participate in a cornhole tournament for $250 price. The kids' zone will include pony rides, inflatables, bubble soccer, Gem Mining, and more.
Light the Night at Ashland Balloonfest (June 28, 2024)
One special event will take place at the fest—The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night, where participants gather as a community to celebrate, honor, and remember those impacted by blood cancers. The funds raised by this collective effort support lifesaving research, advocacy, and assistance for patients and families affected by blood cancers. Individuals are encouraged to join the fight against cancer. Preregistration is mandatory.
Tickets, Location & Parking
General admission is free. All the action will happen at Freer Field, Ashland, located just 65 miles (104 km) away from Cleveland and 50 miles (80.5 km) away from Akron. The parking ticket costs $6 at Freer Field, Ashland University Lot B, and Center Street.
History of the BalloonFest
Ashland Balloon Fest usually has 20 to 30 balloons participating, but in 2005, there was an absolute record with 39 balloons. In past years, they were of different shapes and sizes: Red Dragon, the Purple People Eater, Santa Claus, a huge birthday cake, etc. Come and see for yourself what balloon shapes are going to fly high in the sky this year.
