14 MUST-SEE Hot Air Balloon Festivals In Ohio (2023)

Ohio is not just about the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame or the picturesque landscapes of Hocking Hills. 

It's also home to some of the most vibrant and colorful hot air balloon festivals in the country. 

From the serene glow of balloons at dusk to the thrilling ascents during the day, these festivals offer a visual treat for everyone. 

Here's a list of 14 Must-see Hot Air Balloon Festivals In Ohio.

1. Coshocton Balloon Festival (June 8 - 10) - Coshocton County Fairgrounds, Coshocton

Set in the scenic Coshocton County Fairgrounds, this festival is more than just hot air balloons. 

With a rich history spanning several years, it offers attendees a delightful mix of live music, local food vendors, and craft stalls. 

The highlight, of course, is the breathtaking balloon launches and evening glows, making it a perfect family outing.

2. LaRosa's Balloon Glow (July 3) - Coney Island, Cincinnati

Coney Island in Cincinnati transforms into a spectacle of light and color. 

As the sun sets, the sky is illuminated by glowing balloons, creating a magical ambiance. 

Photo by Farshad Rezvanian

This is followed by a grand fireworks display over the Ohio River, making it a memorable evening for attendees of all ages.

3. Ashland Balloonfest (July 14 - 16) - Freer Field, Ashland

A staple in Ashland's summer events, the Balloonfest at Freer Field is a three-day extravaganza. 

Apart from the mesmerizing balloon flights, visitors can enjoy musical entertainment, a kids' fun zone, and a variety of food stalls. 

The balloon glow event is a must-see, where balloons light up the night in synchronized patterns.

4. MidFirst Ohio Challenge (July 21 - 23) - Smith Park, Middletown

  • Dates: July 21–22, 2023
  • Location: Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio
  • Address: 2301 Wedekind Dr, Middletown, OH 45042
  • Admission: $15/car (includes shuttle) or $5/adult walk-in. Children 12 and under are free.

This isn't just a festival; it's a challenge! Smith Park in Middletown becomes a competitive ground where balloonists showcase their skills. 

Apart from the balloon races, attendees can enjoy skydiving exhibitions, tethered balloon rides, and a bustling vendor market.

5. Balloons Off Broadway (August 5 - 7) - Beulah Park, Grove City

  • Dates: August 5-7, 2023 Location: Beulah Park, Grove City
  • Address: Beulah Park, Grove City

Beulah Park in Grove City offers a weekend filled with vibrant colors and festivities. 

Balloons Off Broadway is known for its community engagement, offering tethered rides, live entertainment, and a variety of food options. 

The festival also features a car show, adding a unique twist to the balloon-centric event.

6. All Ohio Balloon Festival (August 11 - 13) - Union County Airport, Marysville

  • Dates: August 10-12, 2023
  • Location: Union County Airport, Marysville, Ohio
  • Address: 15000 Weaver Rd., Marysville, OH 43040
  • Website: www.allohioballoonfest.com
  • Admission: Varies. Walk-up admission is cash only. Tickets can also be purchased online.

One of the longest-running balloon events in Ohio, this festival at Union County Airport is a treat for the senses. 

With live music performances from renowned bands, helicopter rides, and kids' zones, it's a weekend of non-stop fun. 

The sight of numerous balloons taking to the sky at sunset is truly unforgettable.

7. Flag City Balloonfest (August 18 - 20) - Emory Adams Park, Findlay

  • Dates: August 11-13, 2023
  • Location: Emory Adams Park, Findlay, Ohio
  • Address: 1827 S Blanchard St, Findlay, OH 45840
  • Website: https://flagcityballoonfest.com/
  • Admission: Free

Emory Adams Park in Findlay hosts this iconic event, which has become a staple in Ohio's summer calendar. 

Featuring balloon competitions, a 5K run, fireworks, and a plethora of family-friendly activities, it's a celebration of community spirit and the magic of ballooning.

8. Wellington Balloonfest (August 25 - 27) - Clare-Mar Lakes Campgrounds, Wellington

  • Dates: August 25-27, 2023 
  • Location: Clare-Mar Lakes Campgrounds, Wellington
  • Admission: $20 per car

Nestled in the serene Clare-Mar Lakes Campgrounds, this festival offers a perfect weekend getaway. 

Attendees can camp under the stars, enjoy fishing in the lakes, and of course, witness the majesty of hot air balloons taking flight. 

Evening glows, accompanied by live music, add to the festival's charm.

9. Ravenna Balloon A-Fair (September 8 - 10) - Sunbeau Valley Farm, Ravenna

  • Dates: September 14-17, 2023
  • Location: Sunbeau Valley Farm and Downtown, Ravenna, Ohio
  • Address: Sunbeau Valley Farm: 3229 OH-59, Ravenna, OH 44266
  • Website: https://www.ravennaballoonafair.com/
  • Admission: $5/person. Children 12 and under are free with a paid adult.

Sunbeau Valley Farm in Ravenna becomes a hub of activity during this festival. 

With grand parades, craft shows, live entertainment, and a carnival atmosphere, it's a celebration of Ravenna's community spirit. 

The balloon launches and glows are, of course, the main attraction, drawing crowds from all over the state.

10. Van Wert Hot Air Festival (September 15 - 17) - Van Wert County Fairgrounds, Van Wert

  • Dates: September 15-17, 2023 
  • Location: Van Wert County Fairgrounds, Van Wert
  • Admission: Free

Van Wert County Fairgrounds buzzes with excitement during this festival. 

Photo by Kyle Hinkson

With a rich array of colorful balloons, entertainment stages, and local food vendors, it's a celebration of the region's culture and the timeless allure of ballooning.

11. Balluminaria (November 11) - Eden Park, Cincinnati

  • Dates: November 11, 2023 
  • Location: Eden Park, Cincinnati
  • Admission: Not listed

Eden Park's Mirror Lake offers a stunning backdrop for this evening of magic. 

As balloons glow and reflect off the water, attendees can enjoy a serene walk, live music, and a variety of food options. 

It's a perfect way to enjoy a crisp November evening in Cincinnati.

12. Balloon Glow (May 20) - Chagrin Falls High School, Chagrin Falls

  • Dates: May 25, 2023
  • Location: Chagrin Falls High School, Chagrin Falls, Ohio
  • Address: 400 E Washington St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
  • Website: https://balloonglowtour.com/
  • Admission: Free

Chagrin Falls High School offers more than just an educational setting. 

During the Balloon Glow, the grounds light up with glowing balloons, offering a prelude to the summer festivities. 

With local bands performing and a variety of food stalls, it's a community event not to be missed.

13. Balloon Classic Presented By Aultman (July 28 - 30)

  • Dates: July 28-30, 2023
  • Location: Kent State University at Stark/Stark State College, North Canton, Ohio
  • Address: 6000 Frank Ave NW, North Canton, OH 44720
  • Website: https://nationalballoonclassic.com/
  • Admission: Free
  • Parking: $10

This unique event combines two passions: football and ballooning. 

Held at Kent State University at Stark/Stark State College in North Canton, attendees can enjoy the enshrinement ceremonies and the spectacle of balloons taking to the skies. 

With football legends in attendance and a variety of entertainment options, it's a one-of-a-kind festival.

14. United Way of Defiance Hot Air Balloon Festival (August 4 - 6) - Defiance County Airport, Defiance

  • Dates: August 5, 2023
  • Location: Defiance County Airport, Defiance, Ohio
  • Address: 20399 Airport Rd, Defiance, OH 43512
  • Website: https://www.defianceballoonfest.com/
  • Admission: $10 parking admission per car

More than just a festival, this event at Defiance County Airport is a charitable endeavor. 

Attendees can enjoy balloon rides, live entertainment, and a variety of food options, all while supporting the noble cause of the United Way. 

Photo by Pixabay

It's a celebration of community, charity, and the joy of ballooning.

Summary

As we wrap up our journey through Ohio's hot air balloon festivals for 2023, it's clear that the Buckeye State offers some of the most captivating aerial displays in the country. 

From family-friendly events in small towns to grand spectacles in bustling cities, there's a festival for everyone. 

Whether you're looking to capture that perfect photo, share a memorable outing with loved ones, or simply bask in the beauty of floating balloons against the backdrop of Ohio's skies, these 14 events promise unforgettable experiences. 

So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to look up and be amazed.