Arkansas Hot Air Balloon Championship This Weekend

One of the many events going on this weekend around the Lakes Region is the annual Hot Air Balloon event in northern Arkansas.

The 31st Annual Arkansas Hot Air Balloon Championship returns to Anstaff Soccer Complex in Harrison with the event running Friday through Sunday. 

In addition to competitive balloon flights, attendees can expect family-friendly activities and opportunities to see dozens of balloons launch and float above the Ozarks.

The event will feature pilots competing in precision flying challenges, with competition flights in the early morning hours. 

Events begin on Friday afternoon at 4:00 with Food and Retail Vendors open for business along with the Boys Scouts' Kid Zone and Petting Zoo. Live music beginning at 7:00 will be provided by Modern August with Balloon Glow and Tethered Rides presented by Explore Harrison. 

The first Balloon Flights and Key Grab Competition begins Saturday morning at 7:00 with events opening at the Soccer Complex at 9:00 am. Music on Saturday will be provided by the Harrison High School Jazz Band at 5:30 pm followed by Heavy Wrecker at 7:00. 

The event will wrap-up with the final day of competition on Sunday morning at 7:00. 

More information on the championship can be found on the Arkansas State Hot Air Balloon Championship Races Facebook Page.

Local tourism officials view the championship as an important economic driver and a showcase for the Harrison area. The event has built a loyal following over the years and continues to be one of the region's most recognizable outdoor attractions.
Because hot air balloon operations depend heavily on wind and weather conditions, organizers encourage visitors to monitor official event announcements for any schedule adjustments. The best viewing opportunities are generally during launch windows shortly after sunrise and before sunset.