National Balloon Classic 2022

The spectacular, 9-day event held every summer features 100+ hot air balloons that paint the Iowa sky with brilliant colors & unique special shapes. Enjoy live music, buy a balloon ride for a one-of-a-kind experience & prepare to be awestruck as dark skies come alive with a mystical glow during Dawn Patrol & Nite Glow. Fabulous food vendors, beer/wine, fireworks, Special Shapes, and so much more!

SCHEDULE: Beginning Saturday, July 30, morning competition at 6:30am. Gates are open from 6am until 9am, (5am on Dawn Patrol dates) weather permitting! Parking/viewing are “at risk” only, no services or entertainment. Flights over the balloon field are not guaranteed & flight information will not be announced. No pets, smoking/vaping, or outside food/beverages; a limited number of vendors may be open for food/beverage purchase. Admission/parking are free-will donation for morning viewing only!.  

Friday, July 29: 6:30pm - Balloon Flight   On Stage: TBA

Saturday, July 30: 5am: Dawn Patrol    6:30pm: Balloon Flight   On Stage: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels   Dark: Fantastic Fairworks

Sunday, July 31: 6:30pm: Balloon Flight   On Stage: Damon Datson Band   Dusk: Nite Glow Extravaganza

Monday, August 1: 6:30pm: Balloon Flight   On Stage: The Sinclairs Band

Tuesday, August 2: 6:30pm; Balloon Flight   On Stage: 3DM

Weds., August 3: 6:30pm: Balloon Flight   On Stage: Not Quite Brothers   Dusk: Nite Glow Extravaganza

Thurs., August 4: 6:30pm: Balloon Flight   On Stage: TrainWreck   Dark: Fantastic Fireworks

Friday, August 5: 6:30pm: Balloon Flight   On Stage: TBA

Saturday, August 6: 5pm: Dawn Patrol   6:30pm: Balloon Flight   On Stage: Jason Brown   Dark: Fantastic Fireworks

 The National Balloon Classic Memorial Balloon Field is an open, landscaped field—chairs are not provided or available to rent. Be sure to bring your own lawn chair or blanket. Pop-up tents are not allowed.