Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival takes place over two days in mid-July, in Smith Park, Middletown. The city is 39 miles (63 km) north of Cincinnati. Apart from hot air ballooning and traditional night balloon glow, the full-packed program features a car show, tethered balloon rides, biplane rides, foods, drinks, and crafts vendors galore, and fireworks.
The festival hours are 4 pm to 10:30 pm. The fans favorite Night Balloon Glow is typically scheduled for dusk on Friday and Saturday. The glow is then capped with a splendid fireworks show. The car show is available only on Saturday. Speaking of spectacles, hot air balloons and fireworks are not everything. You can also behold miraculous air shows and even experience a plane or helicopter ride above the city. Lastly, try out the carnival rides, the all time favorites.
The ticket cost is $5 per person aged 13 and over, while kids of 12 and under get free admission. Note that the ticket covers only walk-in admission. Festival rides are available for an additional fee. You can buy the tickets and look for the latest updates on the event's website (see External Resources below.)
