Balloons
When can I see the hot air balloons?
Morning Balloon Launches are planned for Saturday and Sunday mornings, 7:30–8:30 AM. Tethered Balloon Rides run every day, 4:30–9 PM, plus Saturday and Sunday mornings, 7–10 AM. Evening Desert Glows are planned for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings, 7–9 PM. All balloon activities are weather permitting.
Are balloons flying all day?
No. Balloons do not fly during the warm, breezy midday hours (about 10 AM to 4 PM). Plan your visit around the morning launches, afternoon tethered rides, and evening Desert Glows.
What is an Evening Desert Glow?
During a Desert Glow, balloons are inflated and lit up by their burners on the ground after sunset. There is no flying. Walk among the balloons, take photos, and meet the pilots and crews.
Will there be a hot air balloon competition?
Yes. ABC16 features balloon task competition on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Pilots launch from off-site locations and fly into the festival grounds, aiming for targets on Airstream Field with fly-ins, marker drops, and precision tasks.
Are tethered hot air balloon rides available?
Yes. Tethered Balloon Rides run every day, 4:30–9 PM, plus Saturday and Sunday mornings, 7–10 AM. Tethered balloons stay secured to the ground and rise to about 75 feet. Rides are $30 for adults and $15 for kids 12 & under, sold on site only. Tethered rides are weather permitting and not included in admission.
What happens if the weather is bad?
ABC16 is a rain-or-shine event, but balloon activities are weather permitting. Wind, rain, or unsafe conditions can delay or cancel balloon operations. Check the latest balloon status and event updates before arriving.
Tickets & entry
How do I get tickets?
Buy tickets online at tickets.abcfest.com, the official and only ABC16 ticket site. General admission prices go up as the event gets closer, so buy early for the best price. Classic Pass and Classic Pass+ weekend passes are also available. Kids 12 and under get in free. Active military and veterans get in free with valid ID. No ticket needed: just show ID at the gate.
Does admission include a balloon ride?
No. General admission does not include a hot air balloon ride or a tethered balloon ride. Tethered rides are sold separately on site.
Are tickets refundable?
Tickets are non-refundable. General admission tickets are not day-specific: use yours any day, any time during the weekend, for one entry.
Can I leave and come back?
General admission is good for one entry on any day you choose; re-entry is not permitted. Classic Pass and Classic Pass+ holders can come and go all weekend, as many times as they want.
Getting there
Where is ABC16?
Wild Horse Pass Festival Grounds, 19593 S 48th St, Chandler, AZ 85226, in the Gila River Indian Community. ABC16 returns to the grounds where the event began in 2011.
How does parking work?
Parking is $10 per vehicle and is managed by Wild Horse Pass.
Is the event accessible?
Yes. Accessible parking is available near the main entrance. The grounds are a mix of gravel and grass. See the Accessibility page for details and how to contact us with specific needs.
At the event
Can I bring food or drinks?
Outside food and drinks are not permitted. The Duncan Food Fest Experience has local food trucks and food vendors all weekend.
Are weapons allowed?
No. Weapons are not permitted at the Arizona Balloon Classic.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, if they are friendly with people and other animals. Owners must clean up after their pets. Staff may ask that a pet leave the event at their discretion.
What should I bring?
A camera or phone, lawn chairs or blankets, and sunscreen.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers. January mornings in the desert are cold, afternoons are warm, and evenings get chilly after sunset.
How can I volunteer?
Sign up on the Volunteer page and we'll follow up with roles and shift times.