Join the Sky-High Fun at the 41st Annual Natchez Balloon Festival: A Must-See Celebration of Music, Family, and Adventure!

Experience the 41st Annual Natchez Balloon Festival: A Celebration of Music, Family, and Adventure


Information from the Natchez Balloon Festival - Photos by Ken Hulsey.

 

The Natchez Balloon Festival is back for its 41st year, bringing excitement and entertainment to Natchez, Mississippi, on October 16-17, 2026. Set against the stunning backdrop of Rosalie Mansion's high bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, this festival has become a staple in the community, attracting visitors from near and far.

 


Event Highlights

 

The festival offers a unique blend of spectacular hot air balloon displays and live musical performances. Attendees can enjoy world-class entertainment while watching colorful balloons gracefully drift through the sky. Not only does the festival celebrate the art of ballooning, but it also hosts a vibrant carnival and an Arts and Crafts market, making it an ideal family-friendly event.



Schedule of Events

 

Hot air balloon flights are scheduled, weather permitting:

- Friday: Morning flights

- Saturday: Morning and afternoon flights

- Sunday: Morning and afternoon flights

 

Please note that hot air balloons do not launch or land at the festival site. Their takeoff and landing locations will depend on real-time weather conditions.

 

Additionally, attendees can witness a breathtaking balloon glow on Friday night, creating a magical atmosphere as the balloons illuminate the night sky.



Ticket Information

 

Tickets for the festival can be purchased in advance or at the gate:

- Friday: General admission for just $20.

- Saturday: General admission is $35 in advance and $45 on the day; VIP options are available for $130 in advance and $155 day-of.

- Weekend Passes: General admission is $45 in advance and $55 on the day, while the VIP weekend pass costs $325 in advance and $375 on the day. Children aged ten and under can enter for free.

 

VIP ticket holders enjoy exclusive perks, including access to the Cappy Stahlman Sponsor and VIP tent with views of the Mississippi River, an open bar on Friday night, a private cash bar on Saturday, and air-conditioned restrooms. The VIP tent will also offer a special dinner on Friday evening.

 

It's important to note that while tickets grant access to the festival grounds, carnival rides require separate tickets, which can be purchased on-site.



Location and Accessibility

 

The 41st Annual Natchez Balloon Festival will be held at:

100 Orleans Street, 

Natchez, MS 39120 

 

This picturesque venue is steeped in history and provides a perfect setting for a weekend filled with excitement and community spirit. 

 

Don’t miss out on this incredible celebration of hot air balloons, live music, and family fun in one of Mississippi's most charming cities. Mark your calendars for October 16-17, 2026, and get ready for a weekend to remember at the Natchez Balloon Festival!




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