The festival returns from Sept. 18-21

If you’ve ever looked up at the sky and wished for just a little more magic, the Plano Balloon Festival is your moment. For four days, Oak Point Park transforms into a canvas of color, music and community spirit. 

It’s part tradition, part spectacle and completely unforgettable — whether you’re chasing the thrill of a balloon launch at dawn or cozying up under the stars for the evening glow.

Here’s everything you need to know:

Festival Essentials


Location: Oak Point Park | Red Tail Pavilion, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano
Tickets: $10 adults | $5 kids (ages 3–12) and seniors 65+ | Free for kids under 36″ | Purchase here 
Parking: $15 Prime Parking (Collin College) | $10 Offsite Parking
Balloons in the Park: Dawn and dusk only (no balloons between 9 a.m.–7 p.m.)
Tethered Balloon Rides: Available when balloons are in the park (weather permitting)
Kids Fun Zone: $2.50–$5 per ride | $20 all-day wristbands

Four Days Of Balloon Magic

The festival runs Sept. 18–21, with the skies above Plano stealing the spotlight:


Sunrise launches at dawn
Evening balloon glows that light up the night
Nightly fireworks shows
Live performances from the Plano Symphony Orchestra, Midtown 10, ICE House Band and Plano Community Band
Skydiving thrills courtesy of the RE/MAX team

Find a full schedule of events here. 

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Photo: Plano Balloon Festival 

Family Fun On The Ground

Back on earth, the Central Market Kids Fun Zone offers inflatables, rides, slides and the Whataburger Kids Korner art tent. Local vendors bring handmade goods, BMW of Plano offers test drives and food stalls keep everyone fueled — because what’s a Texas festival without funnel cakes?

Scam Alert: Buy Only From Official Sources

Plano Balloon Festival, Inc. issued a reminder that tickets are sold only through their official website, www.planoballoonfest.org, or directly at the gate during festival hours.

Unauthorized third-party vendors are not approved to sell tickets online. Buying from them could mean paying inflated prices or, worse, ending up with tickets that aren’t valid. Organizers stress that they cannot guarantee the legitimacy of tickets purchased anywhere but the official source.

Last Minute Essentials 


Leave pets at home — the sound of balloon burners makes them anxious.
Alcohol is prohibited; coolers are strongly discouraged.
Bring sunscreen, comfy shoes, and maybe a compact flashlight for the walk back to your car.
Blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged for the best views.

So pack a blanket, bring your sense of wonder and get ready for a weekend where Plano’s skies put on the ultimate show.

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