It's more than just hot air...
Experience the annual Ohio Challenge! This incredible two-day hot air balloon festival brings some of the best pilots in the country to Middletown, Ohio. You won't want to miss this one-of-a-kind event.
The Details
When: Friday, July 17, 2026 from 5pm – 10:30pm | Saturday, July 18, 2026 from 5pm – 10:30pm
Where: Smith Park GPS Directions: 2301 Wedekind Drive, Middletown, OH 45042
Get detailed directions to the event here.
Admission & Parking: Walk-ins – $10/person (12+), Parking – $20/carload (includes entry to event), Premium Parking – $40/carload (includes entry to event)
Featured Activities
Come out and enjoy the sky being filled with beautiful colors and the hot air balloons in all of their glory. In addition to the competition, there will be a variety of festival activities. Check them out below!
Balloon Glow: A fan favorite! Watch over 30 balloons light up the night sky. Hear the flames roar and the fans cheer as the balloons glow from the ground level. It's a truly magical display that families look forward to every year. This year’s balloon glows will be held both Friday and Saturday at dusk.
Fireworks & Drone Show: There will be an amazing display of fireworks and drones, lighting up the sky following the Balloon Glow at 10:15 PM on Friday and Saturday.
Tethered Balloon Rides: Float up in the air on a tethered hot air balloon for a thrilling experience! $25/person
Antique Car Show: For all of the car enthusiasts, there will be a classic car show featuring unique automobiles, vintage vehicles, and new generation cars. There will be awards for the Top 30 cars, as well as Best of Show and Sponsor’s Choice.
Plane and Helicopter Rides: Plane and helicopter rides from the Butler County Warbirds are available for purchase.
Plane Show: Saturday from 5 PM - 6 PM, watch planes put on a show and soar through the sky.
Additional Activities: Grab some delicious food from one of the many different food vendors. Other vendors will be selling artisan goods and hot air balloon merchandise. There will also be a variety of carnival rides and entertainment for kids and adults alike.
Experience The Ohio Challenge
Visit OhioChallenge.com for more information.