Calgary Hot Air Balloon Glow Festival 2026
Calgary’s Farmyard will host its inaugural Hot Air Balloon Glow Festival on September 18 and 19, 2026, combining the Harvest Lights Festival with a spectacular nighttime balloon show. The event features over 40 attractions, a themed corn maze, and opportunities to meet balloon operators, but weathe…
By Felo News Desk · Published
The Calgary Farmyard is set to light up the night sky this weekend with a brand‑new event that blends the region’s beloved Harvest Lights Festival with a dazzling hot air balloon glow. Scheduled for September 18 and 19, 2026, the festival will showcase more than 40 attractions, a glowing hot air balloon display, a corn maze, and a host of family‑friendly activities. Visitors can explore the farm after dark, enjoy live music, and meet the operators behind the ballooning spectacle.
What’s Happening at the Farmyard?
The centerpiece of the festival is the Hot Air Balloon Glow, presented by the Calgary Balloon Club (CBC). The CBC, a non‑profit organization that has promoted hot air ballooning as a recreational sport for over five decades, celebrated its 50th anniversary this year. Each evening will feature a display of hot air balloons illuminated against the night sky, offering a breathtaking visual that is sure to become a new Calgary tradition.
In addition to the balloon glow, the event will include a corn maze themed around hot air balloons. The maze will stay open after dark, providing a spooky yet exciting flashlight challenge for families and friends. Other attractions include giant slides, a petting farm, mini golf, jumping pillows, pig races, live music, and more. The festival’s goal is to create a festive, family‑friendly atmosphere that encourages visitors to explore the farm’s many offerings.
How to Get Tickets and What to Expect
Tickets for both nights are already sold out, but last‑minute availability may still arise. According to the event’s ticketing page, any tickets that become available will be released at 9 a.m. on Friday for the September 18 evening and at 9 a.m. on Saturday for the September 19 evening. No tickets will be sold on site, so early online purchase is essential for those who want to attend.
The event is priced at $34.95 plus GST, and visitors should arrive at the Calgary Farmyard, located at 284022 Township Rd. 224, Rocky View County, for the full experience. The festival runs from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. each evening, giving guests ample time to enjoy the lights, attractions, and balloon glow.
Weather‑Dependent Balloons and Alternatives
Hot air balloons rely on favorable weather conditions to operate safely. If the weather is unsuitable for balloon inflation, the festival will still offer a “Candlestick Glow” Basket and Burner demonstration in place of the balloon display. This ensures that visitors will still experience a unique nighttime spectacle, even if the balloons cannot take flight.
Why the Festival Matters
The Calgary Hot Air Balloon Glow Festival represents a new cultural event that combines traditional farmyard entertainment with the awe‑inspiring spectacle of hot air balloons. It offers an opportunity for the community to gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories in a setting that highlights both local heritage and the beauty of the night sky.
For those interested in learning more about hot air ballooning, the festival will provide opportunities to meet balloon operators and discuss the sport. This educational component adds depth to the event, making it more than just a visual display but also a chance to understand the art and science behind balloon flight.
What’s Next?
As the festival approaches, attendees should keep an eye on weather updates and ticket availability. The Calgary Balloon Club and the Calgary Farmyard are working to ensure that the event runs smoothly, regardless of weather conditions. If you’re planning to attend, consider arriving early to secure a spot in line for the attractions and to enjoy the full evening experience.
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, the Calgary Hot Air Balloon Glow Festival promises an unforgettable night of light, laughter, and wonder. Don’t miss the chance to see the sky illuminated by hot air balloons, explore a themed corn maze, and enjoy a variety of family‑friendly activities all under one roof.
Key facts
- Inaugural Hot Air Balloon Glow Festival at Calgary Farmyard on Sept. 18-19, 2026
- Over 40 attractions including a balloon glow, corn maze, and live music
- Tickets sold out but last‑minute releases at 9 a.m. on Friday and Saturday
- Weather‑dependent balloons; Candlestick Glow demo as backup
- Event price: $34.95 + GST; runs 5:30-9:30 p.m.
- No on‑site ticket sales; early online purchase essential
Why it matters
The festival introduces a new nighttime tradition to Calgary, combining the excitement of hot air balloons with family entertainment, thereby enriching the local cultural calendar and attracting visitors to the region.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Calgary Hot Air Balloon Glow Festival held?
The festival takes place at the Calgary Farmyard, located at 284022 Township Rd. 224, Rocky View County.
What is the cost of admission?
Tickets are priced at $34.95 plus GST.
Will the hot air balloons be displayed if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent balloon inflation, a Candlestick Glow Basket and Burner demonstration will replace the balloon display.
Can I buy tickets on the day of the event?
No, tickets are sold online only; no on‑site sales will be available.
What time does the festival start and end?
The event runs from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. each evening.
Sources
- [1] dailyhive.com — originally reported as “New hot air balloon event will light up the sky near Calgary soon | Daily Hive | Events”
