The Flag City BalloonFest is a renowned hot-air balloon festival held annually in mid-August at Emory Adams Park in Findlay, Ohio. This event attracts visitors of all ages, offering a weekend filled with exciting activities centered around the captivating sight of approximately fifty hot-air balloons piloted by professionals. The festival is designed to entertain families, enthusiasts, and curious onlookers and promises a memorable experience through a blend of aerial spectacles and ground-level attractions.
Schedule
The Flag City BalloonFest spans over three days with activities commencing early in the morning and extending into the late evening.
Friday, August 9
Festivities begin around 4 pm on Friday, with food vendors open until 11:00 pm and the Kids Zone open until 8 pm. The Entertainment District and Beer Tent are open from 5 pm to midnight. Highlights include the Jungle Island Petting Zoo, Helicopter Rides, and the Veterans' Tent, all available from 5 pm to 9 pm. Hot Air Balloon Rides start at 5:45 pm, with Tethered Balloon Rides from 6 pm to 9 pm. The Opening Ceremony and Mass Balloon Launch are at 6:30 pm. The evening ends with a Balloon Illumination at 9 pm, fireworks at 9:30 pm, and activities continuing until midnight.
Saturday, August 10
On Saturday, the day starts early with hot air balloon rides at 6:15 am. Helicopter rides run from 9 am to 9 pm. The Kids Zone, Jungle Island Petting Zoo, and Pony Rides are available from 10 am to 9 pm. Food vendors operate from 11 am to 11 pm, and the Nonprofit Showcase Event Tent is open from 11 am to 9 pm. Additional attractions include a Car and Motorcycle Show from 10 am to 2 pm, a craft beer tasting from 11 am to 3 pm, and demonstrations by the Hancock County Sheriff's Office at 1 pm. Balloon pilot autographs are available from 4 pm to 5 pm. The day concludes with a hot air balloon glow at 9 pm and fireworks at 10 pm. The Entertainment District and Beer Tent are open until midnight.
Sunday, August 11
Sunday's events start early with balloon rides and culminate with an awards banquet at 11 am. However, all activities, especially balloon flights and illuminations, are contingent on weather conditions.
Hot Air Balloon Events
The centerpiece of the Flag City BalloonFest is the array of hot air balloon activities, including both tethered and full-fledged rides. Tethered rides, costing $20 to $25, are available on a first-come, first-served basis, providing a brief but exhilarating lift-off experience. Full balloon rides, provided by SkyCab, are priced at $300 and must be reserved in advance. These rides offer a more extensive flight experience, taking passengers high above the scenic landscapes of Findlay.
Balloon Glow and Special Shapes
A highlight of the festival is the Balloon Glow, a mesmerizing display where balloons are illuminated against the night sky. The Glow Encounter Experience, priced at $50, grants early access to a prime viewing area along with souvenirs and refreshments. Specially shaped balloons, such as Ellie the Elephant and the Smiley Scarecrow, add a unique charm to the event.
Tickets
General admission to the Flag City BalloonFest is free, thanks to the support of generous sponsors. However, certain activities, such as balloon rides and the Glow Encounter Experience, require paid tickets. For those interested in the car and motorcycle show, the registration fee is $15.
Parking
Parking for the festival is facilitated with both general and reserved options. The reserved parking, included with the Glow Encounter tickets, ensures a convenient spot for the entire day. It's important to note that pets are not allowed on the festival grounds, with the exception of certified service animals.
Nearby Attractions
Findlay is home to several attractions that visitors might explore while in the area. The Mazza Museum, dedicated to children's book illustrations, and the Riverside Park and Waterfalls offer additional recreational opportunities. The city's vibrant downtown area also features a range of dining and shopping options.
