Kanab Balloons and Tunes Festival   |  Olivier Barthez

Hot Air Ballooning

Imagine this: the crisp air of dawn, the sun just cresting over the nearby rocky peaks. Beneath your feet, the hard-packed ground crunches with each step as you approach a vibrant splash of nylon laid out on the ground. With a roar, the burner ignites, sending a rush of warm air into the nylon, transforming it into a billowing balloon. You climb aboard the woven basket and the earth begins to recede, revealing a breathtaking panorama of red rock or mountainous terrain. This is hot air ballooning in Utah, an unforgettable experience readily available through numerous festivals and expert guides.

Utah Hot Air Balloon Festivals

Go With a Guide

Not in town for a festival? You can still take to the skies with a hot air balloon guide. From Ogden to St. George, Utah's hot air balloon guides offer sunrise rides, tethered rides, private and shared rides. Just be sure to book in advance.

How to Find a Guide

Kanab Balloons and Tunes Festival

Kanab Balloons and Tunes Festival

Photo: Becca Summers/Kane County Office of Tourism

Bluff Balloon Festival

Bluff Balloon Festival

Photo: Sonja Doctorian

What is a "balloon glow"?

A "balloon glow," "night glow" or "glow-in" is a popular attraction at many hot air balloon festivals. Typically beginning around sunset, many of the participating balloons will tether to the ground in a select spot, and each will take turns firing up their burner. As night descends, the glow of the balloons creates a spectacular sight. It's also a great opportunity to observe the balloons up close, which is particularly fun for kids.

At Dinah Soar Days in Vernal, the night glow is set up along Vernal's Main Street.

At Dinah "Soar" Days in Vernal, the night glow is set up along Vernal's Main Street.

Photo: Geoff Liesik

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