We have a few hot air balloon events here in Kansas, but the start of fall always comes with Columbus Day. Columbus himself may not have been the best, but we have turned this holiday into a beautiful show of color and hot air balloon fun. Instead, we can celebrate Columbus, Kansas and all of the color we bring during this festival. Come see a small hint of the beauty you’ll find
Columbus, Kansas is hosting a gorgeous annual hot air balloon festival from October 11th to October 13th, the weekend before Columbus Day. It’s filled with plenty to do and see, especially if you love hot air balloons.
Columbus, Kansas Chamber of Commerce Facebook
Around 7 p.m. on Friday, the festivities start with a hot air balloon glow at the Industrial Park, weather permitting. They also have a scarecrow contest, quilt show, art show, and bean feed preceding it.
Mr Seb/Flickr
The balloons never lift off, but stand tall like the largest lanterns you’ve ever seen. If you’ve never seen a glow before, you won’t want to miss out on this one!
Columbus, Kansas Chamber of Commerce Facebook
Saturday is filled with celebrations, including car and quilt shows, art, a 5k, parade, and balloon “hare and hound” race in the morning around 7-7:30 a.m. during the pancake breakfast.
Columbus, Kansas Chamber of Commerce Facebook
Enjoy watching the balloons make their way through the skies before enjoying a day full of fair-time events for all ages. This year, there is a time capsule being reburied to open up in 2068. How exciting! Then, that evening, there will be another balloon liftoff.
JL Johnson/Flickr
Sunday is a smaller repeat of Saturday, with a morning balloon liftoff and art show and tractor pull. The whole weekend is set up for lots to do, so prepare for a day on your feet!
Darla/Flickr
Other than a one-time parking fee of $5,
JL Johnson/Flickr
Address: 320 E Maple Street, Columbus, KS 66725
Columbus, Kansas Chamber of Commerce Facebook
Mr Seb/Flickr
JL Johnson/Flickr
Darla/Flickr
If you’re looking for somewhere to grab grub in Kansas, this old sandwich shop hiding out in this tiny town is the perfect place to start.
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