Walla Walla Balloon Stampede 2025 in Washington

Walla Walla Balloon Stampede is the annual hot air balloon festival, which takes place during a weekend in October at Howard Tietan Park in Walla Walla . One of the oldest and most popular ballooning events in the Northwest features over two dozen balloons and various entertainment for the entire family. Enjoy the sight of technicolor balloons in the sky or dare to go up yourself, enjoying bird-eye views of Washington's fall foliage!

Don't miss the mass balloon ascension at sunrise, when over 20 balloons inflate and fill the sky with colorful dots. Thirty-minute (or longer) hot air balloon rides at Walla Walla Balloon Stampede are available during both sunrise and sunset. You can also head south of the park for unique rides with spectacular vineyard views.

The hot air balloon glow is a must-see in the evening. Balloons inflate just before sunset, glowing like giant lanterns as darkness falls over Howard Tietan Park. Mass ascensions begin at 7:15 am. However, the schedule is different for every day of the festival. If the weather is great and the wind is slow, these lift-offs last for about an hour. The picture-perfect massive balloon glow is also an educational opportunity since visitors can walk around and talk to balloon pilots.