Centralia Balloon Fest: Southern Illinois Largest Interactive Hot Air Balloon Experience

Located in Centralia Foundation Park, Balloon Fest will feature 39 hot air balloons, tethered balloon rides, two stages of live entertainment, over 100 vendors in the food and craft fair, and family activities for the three-day event drawing crowds of 15,000 each night.

“Balloon Fest is an unforgettable experience that allows festival attendees to get up close and personal with hot air balloons. Kids of all ages are encouraged to walk up to the hot air balloons as they inflate to interact with the pilots and even help crew a balloon,” says Malaya Downey, Assistant Director of the Centralia Chamber of Commerce.

Gather the family and experience the magic of the Main Event at Balloon Fest Friday, August 19 and Saturday, August 20 from 4:30pm to 8:30pm. During this time, hot air balloons are scheduled to take off from the park and then balloons are scheduled to glow at dusk.

Grab your lawn chairs, check out the food and craft fair, and enjoy the scenic wonder of hot air balloons taking flight and breathtaking views of hot air balloons glowing to the rhythm of music!

“The photo opportunities during the balloon glow at the Main Event are ideal for those visitors looking to capture magical moments to share with family and friends,” adds Downey.

Sunday is Free Family Fun Day from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm with the family activities featured and inflatable jumps for kids! Cardboard Boat Races and the Car & Motorcycle Show have returned to Foundation Park. The closing ceremony will be a free performance from the USAF Starlifter rock band.

For more details on Balloon Fest visit www.centraliaballoonfest.com or contact the chamber office directly: (618) 532-6789 or office@centraliachamber.com