Experience the Magic at the Champaign Balloon Festival in Illinois

Experience the Magic of the Champaign Balloon Festival

As summer winds down and fall approaches, there's no better way to celebrate the change of seasons than by attending the magical Champaign Balloon Festival held annually in Champaign, Illinois. This beloved event attracts visitors from across the state and beyond to witness the spectacular sight of hot air balloons filling the skies above Champaign.

What to Expect at the Champaign Balloon Festival

The Champaign Balloon Festival is a multi-day extravaganza that offers nonstop family-friendly entertainment. The main draw is the early morning mass balloon ascensions where dozens of brightly colored hot air balloons launch into the air all at once, creating an awe-inspiring scene.;

Throughout the day, balloon races and competitions allow pilots to showcase their skills and precision flying abilities. You can also take tethered balloon rides for a unique perspective high above the festival grounds. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, there are rides, games, crafts, vendors, food trucks, and live music all weekend long.

When the sun goes down, the skies light up again with the popular Balloon Glow. Watch as the hot air balloons fire up their burners against the dark night, putting on a dazzling display of illumination.

History of the Champaign Balloon Festival

The very first Champaign Balloon Festival was held in 1986 at the University of Illinois Willard Airport. It all started from the vision of Tom Heinz, Jim Maloney, and Barbara Sandefur who wanted to organize a local hot air balloon event after attending similar festivals around the country.

That inaugural festival brought 15 balloons and welcomed about 15,000 spectators. It was considered a great success and was turned into an annual event for the Champaign community. Over the past three decades, the festival has continued to grow in size and popularity, welcoming balloonists and attendees from across the Midwest and beyond.

When and Where to Experience the Magic

The 2023 Champaign Balloon Festival will take place from July 14-16 at the University of Illinois Willard Airport. This family-friendly event runs Friday through Sunday with activities starting early in the morning and lasting until late at night.

The Willard Airport provides an ideal setting for launching hot air balloons. Its wide open grassy fields allow pilots plenty of room for inflating and ascending. There is also parking available onsite along with pedestrian access for visitors.

The airport is located just minutes from downtown Champaign off North Prospect Avenue. Public transportation and ride sharing make it easy to get to and from the festival grounds.

Tips for Attending the Festival

To fully enjoy everything the Champaign Balloon Festival has to offer, keep these tips in mind:

• Arrive early - Try to get to the festival grounds by 6 AM to witness the morning balloon ascensions.
• Dress for the weather - Bring layers and comfortable shoes since you'll be outdoors all day.
• Pack supplies - Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, and water.
• Leave pets at home - The festival is not suitable for pets due to crowds and unpredictability around balloons.
• Bring cash - Many vendors and food trucks are cash only.
• Be flexible - Balloon launches depend on ideal weather conditions.
• Book lodging early - Hotels fill up fast so reserve your room well in advance.

Unique Photo Ops at the Festival

From amazing aerial shots to creative poses, the Champaign Balloon Festival offers many opportunities for eye-catching photos. Here are some ideas to capture memorable pics:

• Photograph the mass balloon ascension - Arrive before dawn to see dozens of balloons inflate and take flight all together.
• Take a selfie in front of balloons - Pose in front of your favorites before or after they launch.
• Capture the Balloon Glow at night - The hot air balloons lighting up the sky makes a magical backdrop.
• Photograph tethered balloon rides - Zoom in on the basket passengers as they float up and down.
• Shoot creatively - Play with light, shadows, silhouettes, motion blur, and wide shots of the festival grounds.

Join In the Family-Friendly Fun

The Champaign Balloon Festival brings joy, wonder, and memories that last a lifetime. Don't miss your chance to experience the magic! Mark your calendars and make plans to attend the 2023 festival from July 14-16.

Watching the colorful balloons drift into the skies, enjoying rides and games, listening to live music, and making new memories—it's sure to be an unforgettable weekend for your entire family and friend group. We hope to see you there!

FAQs

What are the dates for the 2023 Champaign Balloon Festival?

The 2023 festival will take place July 14-16.

What time should I arrive each day?

Arrive early, around 6 AM, to see the morning balloon ascensions. Activities continue all day and into the evening.

Where does the festival take place?

The festival is held at the University of Illinois Willard Airport just outside Champaign, IL.

Can I bring my pet?

Pets are not allowed at the festival due to large crowds and balloon activities that could startle them.

Is there parking available at the festival?

Yes, parking is available onsite at the Willard Airport. There is also public transportation and ride sharing options.