All Ohio Balloon Fest Takes Flight August 14th

Imagine looking up at the sky to discover a giant flying birthday cake, Darth Vader, and a pair of massive bumblebees drifting through the clouds. No, this isn’t some crazy dream, it’s the All Ohio Balloon Fest!  

Since 1975, Marysville, Ohio has played host to one of the longest-running hot air balloon festivals in the United States. The event features more than 20 massive hot air balloons, ranging from traditional round and brightly colored, to impressive shapes including a massive ice cream cone, birthday cake, and Darth Vader, among others. This year, the festival will begin Thursday, August 14^th and runs through Saturday, August 16^th. Admission is $5.00, and children under age 12 are free.

Each night at 6:00 p.m., the fleet of hot air balloons will launch from the Union Country Airport, offering an incredible spectacle as evening sets in. At 9:00 p.m. there is also a balloon glow, which showcases the magnificent balloons up close for more than 30,000 visitors to enjoy.

In addition to the festivities surrounding the balloons, there are a plethora of activities that cater to all ages and interests! For those of you looking for more daring activities, the fest offers a chance to take a

ride in a hot air balloon, helicopter, or airplane. If that isn’t enough to satisfy your adventurous side, you can even go skydiving! The event also has activities for children inside the designated ‘Kidz City’ area, including bouncy houses, games, and a special performance with Radio Disney and Calum Worthy from 2:00 -8:00 p.m. on Saturday.

Aside from the balloon display, one of the major highlights this summer is Thursday’s musical performance featuring country star Jerrod Niemann. Tickets for the concert can be purchased both online at ticketfly, and at all Richwood Bank locations and the Marysville Journal-Tribune. There will also be performances on Friday with Phillip Fox Band and Saturday with Bon Journey.

Finally, what summer festival is complete without an impressive array of cuisine? If you’re searching to satisfy your inner foodie, fear not – this year the festival boasts 19 different vendors ranging from a Louisiana-style grill to Edible Arrangements and old-fashioned soda.

Whether you’re looking to spend a relaxing evening listening to music while watching a glowing fleet of hot air balloons ascend into the evening sky, searching for a perfect end-of-the-summer event for the entire family, or want the chance to partake in some adventurous activities, the All Ohio Balloon Fest has it all. Head on over to Marysville August 14^th, 15^th, and 16^th for a truly unforgettable experience!