Watching massive balloons lift off into the air and soar above packed crowds is a visceral experience. Every year, hot air balloonists converge on Harrison to attend the annual Arkansas Hot Air Balloon State Championship.
Founded in 1995, the Arkansas Hot Air Balloon State Championship has been delighting audiences of all ages for more than 20 years. This year, Harrison CVB/Explore Harrison will be holding the event on September 6-9.
Kicking off the event at the Boone County Regional Airport, there will be a free concert and beer gardens. During the first day, the balloons will be tethered to the ground to give festivalgoers a chance to get up-close and personal with them. Make sure that you don’t miss out on the Balloon Glow!
Saturday will bring even more fun activities. On Saturday morning, there will be balloon race competitions, and during the evening, there will be tethered balloon rides at Anstaff Soccer Complex. Are you brave enough to climb into one of the hot air balloons?
In addition, there will be a CASA Kids Fest on Saturday and Sunday, featuring inflatables, music, food, pony rides and more.
The balloon competitions will also continue on Sunday at the soccer complex.
Because of the unpredictability of the weather, balloon events may be canceled. Event officials may cancel events 15 to 20 minutes before the scheduled time if there are high wind gusts or rain.
READ MORE: Harrison’s Hot Air Balloon Festival
Image courtesy of Arkansas Hot Air Balloon State Championship
