15th Annual Arizona Balloon Classic

15th Annual Arizona Balloon Classic

January 16–18, 2026 | Wild Horse Pass Festival Grounds – Gila River Indian Community Location: Wild Horse Pass Festival Grounds – 19593 S 48th St. Chandler, Az 85226 – Gila River Indian Community

Dates: January 16–18, 2026 (Friday–Sunday)

Event Hours: Friday, 1/16: 4PM – 9PM, Saturday, 1/17: 7AM – 9PM, Sunday, 7AM – 9PM

Morning Balloon Ascensions (Saturday, Sunday): 7:30 AM – 8:30AM

Evening Balloon Glows: 7:00 PM – 9PM

Arizona’s Premier Hot Air Balloon Race & Festival

Experience three days of sky-high excitement as dozens of colorful hot air balloons launch in morning mass ascensions and light up the night during our signature Desert Glows. Guests are welcome on the field to watch inflations up close, meet pilots, and capture incredible photos.

New for 2026: Morning Competition Tasks

Each morning, competitive aeronauts will fly to the event site and complete precision tasks for cash & prizes—in addition to the morning ascensions. Watch pilots navigate targets and showcase skillful flying for bragging rights and awards.

Festival Highlights

• Morning Ascensions & Competitions (Saturday & Sunday)

• Desert Glows (Fri, Sat & Sun nights): a full field of illuminated, tethered balloons choreographed to music

• Hot Air Balloon Rides (advance reservation recommended)

• Tethered Balloon Rides (family favorite)

• Family Fun Zone with inflatables and games

• BMX Stunt Shows

• Live Entertainment all weekend

• Retail Shopping & Commercial Exhibits (browse and buy)

• 9th Annual Street FoodFest—dozens of food trucks & festival eats

Event schedule and attractions subject to change.

All ballooning activities are weather-dependent. No refunds.