Updated January 18, 2019
If your kids are early birds, forget about catching the proverbial worm — head to the National Balloon Classic in Indianola and watch hot air balloons rise into sky at the break of dawn instead. Even today’s jaded kids will be in awe of the spectacular sight of balloons ascending into the air from the ground all at once. In addition to the colorful balloon displays, this nine day festival boasts a parade, live musical performances, kid’s activities, and a fun run.
Know Before You Go
- Hours: AM: Spectator Parking and Morning Gates open at 5:00 am; PM: Spectator Parking opens at 4:00 pm, Evening Gates open at 4:30 pm.
- Cost of Admission: CASH ONLY. Morning admission: FREE; Evening admission: Ages 6 and over: $5.00, Ages 5 and under: FREE.
- Parking: FREE.
- Food: No outside food, beverages or coolers are allowed. Food and beverages can be purchased from several vendors.
- Restrooms: Porta potties are available close to the entrance of the balloon field.
- Prior to your visit check out National Balloon Classic’s website.
While You’re There
If you really do want to catch the morning flight, go to bed early the night before your visit, so you’ll all be bright-eyed enough to watch the balloons lift-off at the crack of dawn! Balloon flights take place daily at 6:30 am. If you are willing to get up even earlier, grab a flashlight and catch the Dawn Patrol at 5:15 am on Saturdays of the festival.
Since the gates open at 5:00 am you can go “all in” and take in the full experience by arriving early enough for the family to be able to watch the hot air balloons get inflated, lift-off and take flight. It really is quite a spectacular site! Weather and wind conditions permitting. Whatever time you go, don’t forget to pack your camera! There will be plenty of photo ops in the midst of the majestic hot air balloons.
If the thought of getting up that early makes you cringe, and your kids are night owls, then opt to attend the night flights. Evening balloon flights take place daily during the festival at 6:30 pm. Catch Nite Glow and Nite Glow Extravaganza on Sundays of the festival, to watch the balloons get inflated, light up the night when their burners are ignited and dazzle spectators with their gorgeous glow.
In addition to the balloon flights there are many other events scheduled throughout the festival. There’s a Kids Land, complete with carnival rides and games; Wacky Classic Parade scoops the loop around Indianola’s square; a Balloon Challenge 5K Cross Country Race and a live band is rocking the balloon field stage each evening.
To take your festival experience to new heights a balloon ride is a truly unique and unforgettable way to experience the National Balloon Classic. Balloon rides can be taken every morning or evening (weather permitting) during the festival. Spots fill quickly so schedule your reservation in advance. To purchase a balloon ride, contact: Galena On The Fly, Inc. (815) 777-2747 GalenaOnTheFly@yahoo.com.
What to Bring To the National Balloon Classic
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Sun Screen
- Bug Spray
- Blanket
- Chairs
- Comfortable Clothes
- Sturdy Shoes
National Balloon Classic
15335 Jewell Street, east of Indianola.
Indianola, IA
Phone: (515) 961-8415
Web: http://www.nationalballoonclassic.com/
Have you been to the National Balloon Classic? Share your tips for family fun at the balloon festival in the Comment section below.
