Saturday & Sunday · 7:30–8:30 AM
Morning Balloon Launches
Balloons inflate and lift off from the festival grounds shortly after sunrise, when the desert air is calm. It's the best time to see balloons in flight.
What happens
On Saturday and Sunday mornings, pilots and crews lay out and inflate their balloons on the festival grounds, then lift off in the calm morning air. The morning program also includes the ABC16 balloon competition.
Tips
- Arrive early. Gates open at 7 AM on Saturday and Sunday.
- Dress in layers. January mornings in the desert are cold.
- Check balloon status before you leave home. Launches depend on calm winds.
Want to fly?
Rainbow Ryders, the official hot air balloon ride operator, offers paid passenger flights that depart from the festival grounds. They're booked separately and aren't part of the competition. See Hot Air Balloon Rides.
- Days
- Saturday & Sunday
- Planned time
- 7:30–8:30 AM
- Weather
- All balloon activities are weather permitting.
Plan your ABC16 visit
Morning Balloon Launches is part of the 16th Annual Arizona Balloon Classic, January 15–17, 2027, at Wild Horse Pass Festival Grounds in Chandler, Arizona. It’s included with festival admission. Kids 12 and under get in free.