Date: Sunday, August 24
Time: Gates open at 4:00 PM
Location: Danville-Boyle County Airport
Admission: FREE
Balloons Over the Bluegrass is back for another high-flying evening of fun at the Danville-Boyle County Airport! This beloved community event celebrates hometown heroes with tethered balloon rides, delicious eats, live entertainment, and more—all in the heart of Boyle County.
Event Details
Balloons Over the Bluegrass returns to the Danville-Boyle County Airport on Sunday, August 24, for an evening packed with food, music, family fun, and the unforgettable sight of hot air balloons filling the sky. Gates open at 4:00 PM, and the festivities begin right away with food trucks, craft vendors, and live music setting the stage for a relaxed and festive atmosphere.
Tethered balloon rides begin at 5:00 PM for $10 per person, giving guests the chance to rise into the sky and take in views of the landscape from approximately 100 feet up. As the evening progresses, hot air balloon teams will arrive and begin setting up for launch. Around 7:00 PM, you’ll see balloons inflating in the field, with an anticipated lift-off time of 7:30 PM, creating a stunning visual as they drift across the horizon.
With something for everyone—great food, local shopping, live entertainment, and a festive community vibe—Balloons Over the Bluegrass is a summer tradition that promises a memorable experience for the whole family.
Entry and Parking
To keep traffic flowing smoothly, attendees can enter the event grounds through two main access points:
- Main Airport Entrance on Airport Road
- New Event Entrance along Old U.S. 127, directly across from J.C. Hangar Bar and Grill
Free parking will be available in designated areas near the airport. Look for signs and volunteer attendants to help direct you.
Food Trucks & Vendors
Come hungry! A variety of local food trucks and vendors will be on-site serving up everything from festival favorites to local specialties. You’ll find:
T-Wayne and Smokey’s BBQ, Holy Smokes BBQ, and Biscuit’s BBQ and Catering are bringing the smoky, slow-cooked goodness.
Lemonade on the Rocks and Your Main Squeeze will keep you cool with fresh, ice-cold drinks.
Gotchee Hibachi and Casa Mobile are serving up bold, flavorful dishes hot off the grill.
The Still at Blue Rook Distillery will be slinging their famous smash burgers, and Captain Franks Hotdog Emporium Food Truck is a must-visit for the classic dog done right.
Honey Baked Ham, Boston’s Way, and RISE and Eat offer delicious sandwiches and unique bites.
Street Sweets and Serenity Sweet Snow will take care of your sweet tooth with everything from icy treats to indulgent desserts.
Teach’s Coffee offer specialty coffees, teas, and more!
Grab your popcorn for the big show from Southern Style – Kettle Corn, Mini Donuts, & The Big Blue Lunch Box
Other Entertainment
While the balloons are the stars of the show, there’s plenty more to enjoy throughout the evening:
- Live music from Mercury 7 from 4-6 PM
- Kids’ activities including the Boyle County Public Library Bookmobile
- Planes, helicopters, big trucks and heavy machinery on display
- Craft vendors with exclusive hot air balloon themed merch
The Balloons
The balloons will begin arriving around 7:00 PM, with pilots preparing for liftoff shortly after. By 7:30 PM, you’ll witness a spectacular scene as the hot air balloons inflate and gracefully lift off into the evening sky, creating a stunning visual as they float across the sky.
Experience the thrill of flight with tethered balloon rides, available for just $10 per person. You’ll gently rise to about 100 feet above the ground, offering breathtaking views of the event and the surrounding countryside.
Whether you’re here for the balloons, the food, the music, or the fun, Balloons Over the Bluegrass is a can’t-miss summer event in Danville. Gather your family, bring a blanket or lawn chair, and come out for a memorable evening under the Kentucky sky!
For updates and event announcements, follow the Danville-Boyle County Airport on Facebook HERE.
Something special for our First Responders
As part of this year’s Balloons Over the Bluegrass Festival, we are proud to honor the brave men and women who serve and protect our community every day. This family-friendly celebration will include a special tribute to our First Responders — the dedicated heroes who keep Boyle County safe.
In recognition of their service, all First Responders and their immediate families are invited to enjoy VIP access to a Hospitality Tent hosted by Danville-Boyle County Parks & Recreation. This exclusive area will offer free food and drinks and serve as a nice place to cool off during the festival. Plus, each first responder will receive a free Balloons over the Bluegrass t-shirt.
We are deeply grateful for your commitment, courage, and dedication. Thank you for all that you do!