Looking for the perfect way to spend a fall day? Well, look no further than Natchez Balloon Festival. The 3-day event includes loads of hot air balloons. You can even go for a ride on one, but that’s not all there is to love about the annual event. There’s also a carnival, arts and crafts market, food vendors, and more. Read on for all the deets, so you don’t miss this fall favorite.

A great addition to your seasonal itinerary, Natchez Balloon Festival was recently named one of the 7 best fall fests in the U.S.

Great Mississippi River Balloon Race/Facebook

And with dozens of hot air balloons, a carnival, and great shopping, food, and musical entertainment – we’d say the festival is well deserving of its most recent accolade.

Great Mississippi River Balloon Race/Facebook

Heading into its 34th year, the festival is held over the course of three days on the grounds of the Rosalie Mansion.

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The historic property overlooks the Mississippi River, providing the perfect backdrop for the balloons as they take flight.

Great Mississippi River Balloon Race/Facebook

This year’s fest is scheduled for October 18th, 19th, and 20th. The festival gates open at 5 p.m. on the 18th, 2 p.m. on the 19th, and 1 p.m. on the 20th.

Great Mississippi River Balloon Race/Facebook

Dozens of balloons in all shapes and sizes will take flight during the festival. The high-flying fun kicks off on the 1st night with a magical balloon glow.

Great Mississippi River Balloon Race/Facebook

But you can do more than observe hot air balloons – you can also go for a ride in one!

Great Mississippi River Balloon Race/Facebook

Tethered balloon rides are offered throughout the course of the fest, weather permitting.

Great Mississippi River Balloon Race/Facebook

Remember, though, there’s more to the annual event than balloons. The festival fun also includes an arts and crafts market, brimming with one-of-a-kind wares.

Great Mississippi River Balloon Race/Facebook

There’s also a carnival, where, in addition to rides and games, you’ll find plenty of food vendors.

Great Mississippi River Balloon Race/Facebook

Each day brings a new musical act. This year’s headliner is Cowboy Mouth.

Great Mississippi River Balloon Race/Facebook

 

Great Mississippi River Balloon Race/Facebook

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The 2019 Natchez Balloon Festival dates and “gates open” times are: October 18th at 5 p.m., October 19th at 2 p.m., and October 20th at 1 p.m. For more information, call (601) 442-2500. You can also visit the Natchez Balloon Festival website or Facebook page.

So, ever attended this majestic fest? If so, tell us about it in the comments section.

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Address: 100 Orleans St, Natchez, MS 39120, USA