Discover the Magic of Fall Hot Air Balloon Festivals in Arizona
When the monsoon weather moves out of Arizona, it makes way for crisp autumn air. The gentle breezes and clear skies create the perfect palate for dots of vibrant color to take flight.
Fall is the perfect season for hot air balloons, and the autumn air comes alive with hot air balloon festivals across Arizona. Here are some of the best places to experience the joy and adventure of hot air balloon festivals and family adventure in our state.
1. Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival
Location: Salt River Fields, Scottsdale, Arizona
Dates: Friday through Sunday of the Last Full Weekend in October
This could be described as the ultimate three-dimensional Halloween celebration. The Spooktacular Balloon Festival combines trick-or-treating, family fun, and hot air balloons.
In the free kids' zone, kids can play on more than 30 inflatable slides, bounce houses, and an obstacle course. In the evenings, there are balloon glows, fireworks, spooky trails, and a magic show.
READ: Out of This World Views in Arizona's Chiricahua Mountains
For a fee, parents and children can see the entire panorama with tethered balloon rides. Get tickets and details on their website.
2. Page Lake Powell Balloon Regatta
Location: Page, Arizona
Dates: First Weekend of November
The Page Lake Powell Balloon Regatta is a beautiful fall balloon festival next to gorgeous Lake Powell. The event combines a street fair, live entertainment, food and craft vendors, and evening balloon glows. This is a perfect way to greet fall in Arizona.
READ: Explore These Exciting 15 Fall Activities in Arizona
Imagine a sky full of about 50 hot air balloons during the daily mass ascensions from Lake Powell National Golf Course and John C. Page Memorial Park. Learn more on the Page-Lake Powell Chamber website.
3. Colorado River Crossing Balloon Festival
Location: Yuma, Arizona
Dates: Third Weekend of November
Finally, check out the Colorado River Crossing Balloon Festival in Yuma. Held the third weekend in November from Friday to Sunday, this is one of Arizona's most beautiful hot-air ballooning events.
READ: Mysterious Balloon Spotted Over Arizona
The balloon glows light up the night, creating a magical atmosphere. Then, don't miss the mass ascensions on Saturday and Sunday morning. Throughout the weekend, the balloonists will offer tethered rides so attendees can experience the beauty of the Sonoran Desert from above. Find out more on their website.
Arizona: Experience a Great Fall Activity for the Whole Family
Hot air balloon festivals are not just about the balloons. This is a great chance to get out in the cooler desert air and experience the beauty of Arizona in a whole new way.
Sources: Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival (azspooktacular.com) | Facebook Lake Powell Balloon Regatta | Page-Lake Powell Chamber | Page Lake Powell Balloon Regatta | Facebook: Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival | Colorado River Crossing Balloon Festival - Yuma | Yuma Chamber of Commerce
LOOK: Best scenic drives in Arizona
Gallery Credit: Stacker
LOOK: Highest-rated campgrounds in Sierra Vista, according to Yelp
Gallery Credit: Stacker
LOOK: Most commonly seen birds in Arizona
Gallery Credit: Stacker