15th Annual Arizona Balloon Classic - Arizona's premier hot air balloon race & festival

15th Annual Arizona Balloon Classic Returns to Its Original Home at the Gila River Indian Community in 2026 Chandler, Ariz. — The Arizona Balloon Classic, one of Arizona’s most iconic and visually stunning hot air balloon events, is officially returning to its roots. Arizona Events Group proudly announces that the 15th Annual Arizona Balloon Classic will take place January 16–18, 2026, at the Wild Horse Pass Festival Grounds on the Gila River Indian Community, where the event first launched in 2011. After seven successful years at Goodyear Ballpark, the Arizona Balloon Classic is expanding and elevating the attendee experience by returning to the historic east valley location—offering more space, more flying area, and the return of competitive hot air balloon racing. ________________________________________ A Weekend Filled with Sky-High Excitement NEW in 2026: Competitive Balloon Racing & Tasks – And Morning Hot Air Balloon Ascensions Pilots from across the country will compete in precision challenges—including target drops and high-skill maneuvers—for cash and prizes. In addition to the colorful hot air balloons taking flight during spectacular sunrise ascensions each morning. Desert Glows – Friday, Saturday & Now Sunday Night! Back by overwhelming demand: • Friday Night Glow • Saturday Night Glow • NEW – Sunday Night Glow Finale! Balloons illuminate the desert sky in a synchronized Glow set to music, creating one of the most breathtaking sights in Arizona. 9th Annual Street Food Fest A massive showcase of food trucks and festival favorites—come hungry! Family Fun Zone Inflatables, hands-on activities, and entertainment for kids of all ages. Music/DJ, Retail Vendors & Exhibitors Shop, sample, and enjoy a full festival experience. Classic Car Show Come check out some cars – old and new. Remember – All hot air balloon activity is weather permitting. Can’t steer a hot air balloon, only by wind. ________________________________________ A New Chapter at Wild Horse Pass The return to the Gila River Indian Community marks a major milestone for the festival. “Coming back to Wild Horse Pass is a homecoming for the Arizona Balloon Classic,” said Tim Matykiewicz, President/CEO of Arizona Events Group. “This venue gives us room to grow, reintroduce competitive balloon racing, and celebrate our 15th year in the biggest way yet.” The Gila River Indian Community has partnered with AEG throughout the summer to expand safe flying areas for pilots—further elevating the quality and excitement of the event. ________________________________________ Tickets & Registration Tickets: To celebrate 15 years, tickets go on sale Thursday, November 28th for just $15. Vendor, RV Space & Sponsorship Applications: Are still available now at www.abcfest.com ________________________________________

Event Links

Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3354405-0

Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3354405-2

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