The Plano Balloon Festival 2025 is ready to light up the skies over North Texas with four days of family fun, colorful hot-air balloons, live entertainment, and community spirit. Scheduled for September 18 through September 21, 2025, the annual event returns to Oak Point Park in Plano, Texas, for its 46th year.
Thousands of visitors are expected to attend, making it one of the region’s most anticipated fall traditions. From morning balloon launches to evening balloon glows, the event blends aviation, music, food, and activities that appeal to every age group.
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Dates, Venue, and Festival Hours
- Thursday, September 18 – 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Friday, September 19 – 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday, September 20 – 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday, September 21 – 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM
All events take place at Oak Point Park & Red Tail Pavilion, located at 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway in Plano. The spacious venue allows for balloon launches, live performances, and family activities spread across open fields and dedicated zones.
What to Expect This Year
Plano Balloon Festival 2025 is bringing back its signature attractions while adding a few new surprises. Attendees can look forward to:
- Hot-air balloon launches at sunrise on Saturday and Sunday, weather permitting.
- Evening balloon glows on Friday and Saturday nights, where balloons light up the night sky.
- Fireworks show to close out Saturday night.
- Live music and performances on the main stage throughout the weekend.
- Parachute team exhibitions offering a thrilling aerial display.
- Kids Fun Zone filled with inflatables, carnival rides, and games.
- Tethered balloon rides for guests wanting a safe, short experience floating above the ground.
The combination of balloons, entertainment, and family fun makes it more than just a visual spectacle—it’s a full festival experience.
Tickets and Admission
Admission is affordable and designed to welcome families:
- Adults: $10
- Children (ages 3-12): $5
- Seniors (65+): $5
- Children under 36 inches: Free
Additional costs apply for Kids Fun Zone wristbands, rides, and food vendors. Many areas of the festival operate on card or digital payments, so attendees are encouraged to plan ahead.
Parking and Transportation
Parking is available near the festival grounds, with several designated lots surrounding Oak Point Park. Remote parking areas with shuttle services may also be available to help manage traffic. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, especially during popular times such as evening balloon glows, to secure parking and avoid long waits.
Family-Friendly Highlights
The Plano Balloon Festival has always emphasized being family-oriented, and 2025 is no different. Some highlights for families include:
- Kids Fun Zone: Carnival rides, bounce houses, and interactive games.
- Arts & crafts booths: Hands-on activities for younger children.
- Face painting and balloon art: Always popular with the youngest festivalgoers.
- Educational exhibits: Learn about the science of ballooning and aviation.
Parents can feel comfortable knowing there are plenty of activities beyond balloon watching to keep children engaged all day.
Food and Vendors
Food is always a highlight of the festival, with a wide range of options including Texas barbecue, festival classics like funnel cakes and kettle corn, and international cuisine from local vendors. In addition to food, visitors can browse merchandise tents and artisan booths offering handmade crafts, jewelry, and festival souvenirs.
Weather and Balloon Flights
One important factor to remember about ballooning is its dependence on weather conditions. Balloon launches and glows are subject to change if winds are too strong or storms are in the area. Safety always comes first, so while organizers plan multiple launches, flexibility is key.
Festivalgoers are encouraged to check official announcements during the event for updates on flight status. Even if a launch is canceled, there are still plenty of performances, rides, and activities to enjoy.
Community and Sponsorship
The Plano Balloon Festival is more than just a celebration—it’s a community fundraiser. Many local nonprofits participate, earning revenue through concessions and volunteer opportunities. Sponsors from across Texas help fund the event, ensuring that ticket prices remain accessible while providing visitors with a large-scale experience.
Tips for Attending Plano Balloon Festival 2025
If you’re planning to attend this year, here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your visit:
- Arrive early: Morning launches often draw large crowds, and evening glows fill quickly.
- Dress for the weather: September in Texas can mean warm afternoons and cooler evenings, so bring layers.
- Stay hydrated: Bring refillable water bottles or plan to purchase drinks on-site.
- Bring a blanket or chairs: Perfect for watching balloon glows or fireworks.
- Plan your payments: Since many festival areas are cashless, bring a debit or credit card.
- Check the schedule daily: Weather can shift activities, so stay updated.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
The Plano Balloon Festival has become one of the premier fall events in North Texas because it offers something for everyone. For some, it’s about the awe of watching dozens of hot-air balloons lift into the sky. For others, it’s about enjoying music, food, and carnival rides with family and friends.
Plano Balloon Festival 2025 is more than an event—it’s a tradition that brings the community together and showcases the charm of North Texas in September. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s an experience that creates lasting memories.
Closing Thoughts
The skies over Plano will once again fill with color and wonder as the Plano Balloon Festival 2025 takes flight this September. From sunrise launches to nighttime glows, the four-day event blends excitement, entertainment, and community pride.
If you’re planning to attend, prepare for a weekend of sights, sounds, and flavors that capture the heart of Texas. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, the Plano Balloon Festival promises to deliver unforgettable moments under the wide Texas sky.
