Balloon Classic takes place every summer in North Canton, Ohio, as part of the Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement festival. Dozens of colorful balloons are launched from the grounds of Kent State University at Stark State College, dotting the sky over Stark County during one weekend between late July and August.
Fest Schedule & Program
The festival's schedule usually runs from 6:30 am to 10 pm on Friday and Saturday, featuring a morning lift-off, a Friday Night Glow, and an incredible firework show on Saturday evening. The main festivities begin at 4 pm on the first day of the festival, with food vendors opening their stalls at 3 pm. The Night Glow normally takes place at 9 pm on Friday, dazzling hundreds of attendees with the beauty of glowing balloons.
The fireworks display unfolds around 10 pm on Saturday. Balloons usually launch in the early morning, from 6:30 am, and in the evening, from 6 to 6:30 pm. After that, until 9 pm, you'll have a chance to go on a tethered balloon ride. A new addition this year, a thrilling drone show, takes place at 10 pm on Friday and at 9:40 pm on Saturday. Sunday's schedule only includes morning launches at 6:30 am.
Up & Up & Away 5K (July 27, 2024)
What better way to reach your athletic goals than by running under the sky full of floating hot-air balloons? At 8 am on July 27th, you'll have a chance to participate in the 5K run or walk, while your children, if they're up to 8 years old, can take part in a Kids Fun Run at 8:50 am. The marathon route spans around the whole Kent State University at Stark campus. Tickets for the event cost $30 for adults. Participation is free for children under 8 years old.
Entertainment
In addition to that, the balloon festival in North Canton features dozens of food and beverage vendors, live music, and fun kids' activities. The venue is equipped with two zones for children, so your little ones will have plenty of things to occupy themselves with! They can even learn something new about the balloons in the educational area.
In the meantime, you can swing by the food stands and try grabbing some of the festival foods, including funnel cakes and pizzas. On Friday and Saturday, there will also be live performances by local musicians, including 80s-inspired band New Wave Nation.
Admission
The best thing about Pro Football HOF Balloon Classic is that the entry is completely free! You do have to pay for food and beverages at the venue, tethered rides, and participation in the marathon. Tethered rides cost $25 per person. Parking after 3:30 pm near the festival grounds costs $10. However, watching the balloon spectacular won't require any money.
