Welcome to the highly anticipated return of the Sikeston Hot Air Balloon Festival! This vibrant, community-fueled celebration marks its 2nd annual gathering at the Jaycee Rodeo Grounds, promising a weekend packed with thrilling sights, sounds, and tastes. Festival-goers are in for a treat with an eclectic lineup of live music, an array of mouth-watering food trucks and vendors, crafts booths showcasing local artisans, and an array of children’s activities destined to delight the young and young at heart. Slated for Friday, June 21, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday, June 22, from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., the festival is set to fill the weekend with unforgettable memories. With costs for entry at a modest $5 per person (kids 10 and under enjoy free entry), the event also offers an exclusive opportunity for tethered balloon rides and the mesmerizing balloon glow, both weather permitting and for $20 a pop, ensuring these experiences are not to miss, remembering it’s a cash-only event.

But what really elevates the Sikeston Hot Air Balloon Festival are the special attractions. Imagine the sky at dusk, lit by the gentle glow of hot air balloons – a sight that truly captures the magic of the event. These tethered rides offer participants a unique view of Sikeston from above, creating a moment of awe and wonder. Furthermore, the evening’s balloon glow event is a visual spectacle, where balloons light up the night in a synchronized display of color and light. These experiences, though subject to the whims of the weather, provide a brilliant backdrop for the live music performances by bands like Double Take on Friday, and Gen X on Saturday, making for an entertainment-packed weekend. Remember, these once-in-a-lifetime attractions are cash transactions only, so come prepared to immerse yourself fully in the splendor of the event.

The festival not only promises two days of festivity and fun but also stands as a testament to the strong community spirit of Sikeston. Following last year’s surprise turnout of around 13,000 people, including many from out-of-state, the event has become a significant date on the community calendar. This year, organizers have made efforts to streamline the experience with better parking and event layout, addressing feedback from last year’s attendees. Local merchants have noted the festival’s positive impact on the area’s economy, with some saying they’ve never seen such business as they did during the festival weekend. This showcases the event’s ability to bring together people from all walks of life, celebrating community and the unique thrill of hot air balloon flights.

As the Sikeston Hot Air Balloon Festival sets the stage for its second year, the participation and support from volunteers remain vital. The communal effort not only ensures the smooth running of the event but also reinforces the sense of belonging and camaraderie among residents. Attendees are encouraged to bring cash to enjoy all aspects of the festival seamlessly, including food, crafts, and rides, due to potentially unreliable internet for card transactions. For anyone looking to be part of this enchanting weekend, whether as a spectator, volunteer, or vendor, now is the time to reach out and contribute to this growing tradition. For more information or to get involved, reach out to sikestonhotairballoons@gmail.com. The Sikeston Hot Air Balloon Festival is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and the simple joy of looking skywards as balloons paint the horizon with their vibrant hues.