Magic In The Sky
The skies over High River are a breathtaking display of light, colour, and sound every September at the Heritage Inn International Balloon Festival.
Dozens of hot air balloons lift off over five thrilling days in the fall along with the spectacular Friday night Balloon Glow make this Festival an event for all ages.
Bring the whole family and experience the magic of ballooning in the foothills of southern Alberta.
September 23 - 27, 2026
The countdown is on to the Opening Ceremonies!
We're Moving!
To Wallaceville For Launches
Our 2026 Festival will be moving to Wallaceville for launches. Both the daily launches and Friday night Balloon Glow will take place at the same site on Centre Street in High River.
Please be patient while we adjust the website, maps, schedule, and other details with the new launch location information. Everything will be updated well-ahead of the Festival.
Intro to Hot Air Ballooning
August 16, 2026
The Festival is right around the corner and there is no better time to get a behind-the-scenes look into hot air ballooning. From launch to landing, there's a beehive of activity that goes into flying a balloon. These workshops are perfect for those with a beginner's interest or considering volunteering as crew members at the Festival.
Head over to our Events page for more details and register.
Passenger Rides
Rides On Sale August 17, 2026
A limited number of balloon rides will be available to purchase starting Monday, August 17, 2026. The flight times will coincide with our scheduled flights Thursday - Sunday. (September 23-27, 2026).
Check out the passenger rides page for more details as well as the Festival Flight Schedule for launch times.
NEXT FLIGHT: September 23, 2026 @ 5:30pm
We appreciate everyone who came out support the 13th annual Heritage Inn International Balloon Festival at the Balloon Glow and our launches. Our 3 successful flights made the skies around High River quite a sight to see. We're already looking forward to flying again at next year's festival.
Chasing * Reminder *
Reminder when following balloons in flight, UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES enter a landowner's driveway or field. You must stay on public roads. Remain at a safe distance behind chase vehicles and give them the right-of-way. Crews need to get to their pilots and balloons as safely and swiftly as possible.
Soar Into Fall: The Heritage Inn International Balloon Festival
Look up! The skies above High River come alive every September as the Heritage Inn International Balloon Festival fills the foothills with colour and community spirit.
For five days, dozens of hot air balloons from around the world take flight, and neighbours and visitors gather for the iconic Friday night Balloon Glow — a spectacular evening full of sights, sounds, and excitement walking amongst glowing balloons, food trucks, live music, and family fun.
Rooted in local pride and powered by hundreds of incredible volunteers, the Festival is more than a spectacle. It’s a highly anticipated tradition that brings our community together while welcoming guests and pilots from across Alberta, Canada, and beyond.
Mark your calendars for the end of September and join us in High River for an uplifting event you’ll remember for years to come!
Passenger Rides
Coming Soon!
Passenger rides during the 2026 Festival go on sale August 17, 2026. Head to our Passenger Rides page for information and updates. Check out our Festival Flight Schedule for launch dates and times.