Las Vegas Hot Air Balloon Festival brings two evenings of glowing hot air balloons, laser shows, tethered balloon rides and family entertainment to Craig Ranch Regional Park on October 23rd and 24th, 2026. Gates open at 5:00 PM each evening for the outdoor festival produced by Balloon Shows USA.
Unlike a traditional early-morning balloon rally, this event focuses on tethered balloons and nighttime balloon glow displays. Balloon Shows USA describes its events as ground-based balloon experiences rather than free-flight launches, with illuminated balloons synchronized to music after dark.
Hot Air Balloon Glow After Sunset
The centerpiece of the festival is the hot air balloon glow. Large tethered balloons remain on the festival grounds while pilots fire their burners, lighting the envelopes from inside and creating a colorful display across Craig Ranch Regional Park.
The balloon presentations are weather dependent. Wind, rain or unsafe conditions can delay or prevent balloons from inflating, so visitors should expect the balloon portion of the evening to change if conditions require it.
Laser Show and Live Entertainment
The evening also includes a laser light show synchronized to music. Balloon Shows USA combines the glowing balloons with lasers and music to create the main nighttime production.
Additional entertainment is planned throughout the festival, including music and activities around the grounds before the main nighttime displays begin.
Take a Tethered Hot Air Balloon Ride
Guests can also reserve a tethered hot air balloon ride. Rather than traveling away from the park, tethered balloons remain secured to the ground while rising above the festival area and returning to the same location.
Balloon Shows USA states that rides generally last about seven to nine minutes and are operated by FAA-certified commercial balloon pilots. Children must ride with an adult, and all rides are subject to weather conditions.
Food, Vendors and Family Activities
The festival includes food vendors, craft and retail vendors and family activities throughout Craig Ranch Regional Park. Visitors can arrive when gates open, explore the vendor areas and find a viewing spot before the balloons and lasers become the focus after dark.
Families planning to spend the full evening at the park may want to bring blankets or lawn chairs for the outdoor viewing portions of the event.
About Craig Ranch Regional Park
Craig Ranch Regional Park is one of North Las Vegas’ largest outdoor recreation areas and regularly hosts festivals and community events. The property includes large lawns and open spaces that can accommodate major outdoor gatherings. Visitors unfamiliar with the venue can learn more in our Craig Ranch Regional Park guide.
Because this is an evening outdoor event, visitors should prepare for cooler temperatures after sunset and allow extra time for parking and walking to the festival area.
Tickets and Registration
Tickets currently range from $10 to $75 depending on the admission option selected. Tethered balloon rides are separate from general festival admission and have limited availability. Balloon Shows USA recommends reserving ride access in advance when available.
