The Sonoma County Hot Air Balloon Classic, a cherished annual tradition spanning two days, invites you to embrace the magic of balloons up close, from their captivating inflation to their majestic launch into the sky. Run entirely by volunteers, this event channels all proceeds towards supporting local charities, infusing every moment with purpose and community spirit.
Prepare to be dazzled by the Glow Show, where intrepid balloon pilots illuminate the pre-dawn darkness at 5:00 AM, transforming the fairgrounds into a mesmerizing array of larger-than-life multicolored lanterns, offering unparalleled photo opportunities. For those who prefer a later start, the Main Launch at 6:30 AM promises a breathtaking spectacle as numerous balloons ascend gracefully into the morning sky.
As the balloons grace the heavens above, indulge in a sensory feast at the fairgrounds, where a delightful array of food, music, and craft vendors await, ensuring a morning filled with culinary delights and entertainment until ~10:00 AM.
For those seeking an immersive experience, tethered rides* offer a tantalizing taste of the breathtaking vistas from a hot air balloon. Tethered rides require an additional ticket.
Saturday
4:00 AM – Gates Open
5:00 AM – Hot Air Balloon Glow Show
~6:30 AM – Main Launch (Approx. 20 balloons participate)
6:00 AM – ~10:30 AM* – Tethered hot air balloon rides
4:00 AM – ~10:30 AM* – Food trucks, funzone, photo balloon, cold inflate
Sunday
4:00 AM – Gates Open
5:00 AM – Hot Air Balloon Glow Show
~6:30 AM – Main Launch (Approx. 20 balloons participate)
6:00 AM – ~10:30 AM* – Tethered hot air balloon rides
4:00 AM – ~10:30 AM* – Food trucks, funzone, photo balloon, cold inflate
View on Website Add to Google Calendar
Sonoma County Fairgrounds
1350 Bennett Valley Road
- Santa Rosa