The FireLake Fireflight Balloon Festival is a free community event held in Shawnee, some 30-minute drive from Oklahoma City, every year in mid-August. The event gathers families for the two days of ballooning and other merriments at Firelake Park next to the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Cultural Heritage Center.
FireLake Balloon Festival's program
The fun-packed program highlights balloon launches, tethered rides, and balloon glows on Friday and Saturday nights. Besides, the visitors can indulge in quality live music, experience the best shopping with local food trucks and retail vendors, partake in Saturday's 5K fun run/walk event, and other family-friendly entertainment. For a detailed schedule, visit the official website (see External Resources below).
Balloon rides
As for the balloon rides, these are available for purchase. The flights are weather-permitting and last 30–60 minutes, depending on the wind. Most baskets accommodate two to four passengers, who must abide by a specific dress code, including closed-toe shoes and long pants. Also, kids should be accompanied by an adult. While the admission and parking are free of charge, balloon rides are available for purchase on a first-come, first-served basis.
Lastly, regarding your stay, you might book some comfy accommodations nearby from the vacation rental options listed on the map below. But if you'd like a full balloon festival experience, you can alternatively stay on the festival grounds with your own RV. The grounds boasts RV spots with water, sewer, and electricity. But to use this option, you must register on the website. Registration opens in May.
