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.
Next Flight
Wednesday, September 23, 2026 • 5:30pm
Our first flight of the Festival, weather permitting, will follow the Opening Ceremonies in our briefing room at the Heritage Inn.
.** DO NOT PAY FOR ANY LIVESTREAM OF THE FESTIVAL **
** DO NOT JOIN A FB GROUP **
** DO NOT BUY TICKETS. EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO WATCH **
The on-site event parking area is available to the public during launch time only.
Centre St remains open to traffic during launch periods. Please follow directions from the Traffic Team.
Balloon Launch Parking Options
1) On-site Accessible Parking (FREE)
- your provincially issued placard is required
- access by south entrance preferred
- arrive early ahead of the launch time
2) On-site Event Parking (FREE)
- access from Centre St south preferred
- east of Centre St, across from launch field
- not available for general parking during the Balloon Glow
- arrive early ahead of the launch time
4) General Street Parking (Free)
If you live in High River near Wallaceville, feel free to walk on over to the Wallaceville Glow site.
Centre St remains open to traffic during the launch periods. Please follow directions from the Traffic Team.
Geocordinates: (50.584738,-113.873963)
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
SOLD OUT
UPDATED: The available balloon rides for 2026's Festival have sold out. We're excited to start flying! Come out and watch! Here's the Festival Flight Schedule for launch dates and times.