Soar Into Adventure: The Flying Circus Hot Air Balloon Festival 2025

Experience the magic of flight at Virginia's most spectacular aerial celebration

There's something truly magical about watching dozens of colorful hot air balloons drift gracefully across the morning sky, their vibrant fabric catching the golden rays of dawn. This September, the Flying Circus Hot Air Balloon Festival promises to deliver exactly that enchanting experience – and so much more.

When Dreams Take Flight

Mark your calendars for September 20-21, 2025, when the Flying Circus Aerodrome transforms into a wonderland of aviation excitement. This isn't just any balloon festival – it's the biggest event of the year at this historic Virginia airfield, combining the serenity of hot air ballooning with the thrill of vintage aircraft displays.

What Makes This Festival Special

The Flying Circus Hot Air Balloon Festival stands out from other aerial events with its perfect blend of activities. You'll witness not just hot air balloons, but also vintage aircraft demonstrations, creating a comprehensive celebration of flight that spans both historical and modern aviation.

Hot Air Balloon Launches happen twice daily:

• Early Morning: 7:00-9:00 AM
• Late Afternoon/Evening: 6:00-8:00 PM

Between launches, the excitement continues with airshows at 1:30 PM on both Saturday and Sunday afternoons, featuring barnstorming performances that will transport you back to aviation's golden age.

Take to the Skies Yourself

Tethered Balloon Rides

For those seeking a taste of balloon flight without leaving solid ground too far behind, tethered balloon rides offer the perfect introduction. These experiences feature balloons anchored to the ground with 50-foot lines, allowing you to rise gently into the air, enjoy a few magical minutes aloft, and then descend safely back to the launch point.

Tethered Ride Details:

• No reservations required – first come, first served
• Cash only (exact change preferred)
• Pay directly at the balloon

Free-Flight Balloon Experiences

Ready for the ultimate adventure? Free-flight balloon rides offer an unforgettable journey across Virginia's stunning landscape. At $300 per person, these premium experiences provide memories that will last a lifetime as you drift silently over rolling countryside and historic landmarks.

Airplane Rides Too

Not to be outdone by their lighter-than-air cousins, airplane rides will also be available during balloon launch times, giving aviation enthusiasts multiple ways to experience the joy of flight.

Pro Tips for Festival Success

Arrive Early – Seriously!

The festival organizers can't stress this enough: gates open at 6:00 AM, and you should take advantage of it. This is their biggest event of the year, and crowds build quickly. If you arrive after 12:00 PM, you'll likely find yourself in a long line of cars stretching back to Route 17. Trust us – watching the sunrise balloon launch is worth the early wake-up call.

What to Bring

• Cash for tethered balloon rides and concessions
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the airfield
• Layers of clothing – mornings can be cool while afternoons warm up
• Camera – you'll want to capture every colorful moment
• Folding chairs for comfortable viewing during airshows

Weather Considerations

Hot air ballooning is weather-dependent, so balloon launches may be canceled due to wind, rain, or other unsafe conditions. The festival continues rain or shine for all other activities, but it's always wise to check weather forecasts and dress appropriately.

Beyond the Balloons

While hot air balloons are certainly the stars of the show, the Flying Circus offers a full day of family-friendly entertainment. The vintage aircraft displays showcase beautifully restored planes from aviation's early days, while the barnstorming airshows feature death-defying stunts and aerial acrobatics that will have you on the edge of your seat.

The festival atmosphere extends beyond the flight line with food vendors, craft displays, and the unique opportunity to walk among both aircraft and balloon crews as they prepare for their aerial performances.

A Virginia Aviation Tradition

The Flying Circus has been entertaining families for decades, and their annual balloon festival represents the pinnacle of their seasonal programming. Located in the heart of Virginia's beautiful countryside, the aerodrome provides the perfect backdrop for this celebration of flight, offering ample space for both spectators and pilots to safely enjoy the festivities.

Plan Your Visit

The Flying Circus Hot Air Balloon Festival offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the wonder of flight in multiple forms. Whether you're a longtime aviation enthusiast or simply looking for a unique family adventure, this September weekend promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready to let your dreams take flight? Visit the Flying Circus Hot Air Balloon Festival website for the latest updates, detailed scheduling information, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Don't just watch the magic happen – be part of it. We'll see you in the skies this September!

For more information about balloon rides, airshow schedules, and festival details, visit www.flyingcircusairshow.com/balloon.html