Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey with the Quad Cities Balloon Festival! Witness the captivating spectacle of hot air balloons soaring high above the Quad Cities skyline. Prepare to be amazed as you discover the wonders of this beloved annual event.
About the Quad Cities Balloon Festival
Welcome to the Quad Cities Balloon Festival, a cherished annual tradition that lights up the skies and hearts of the Quad Cities region! Held every summer at Rhythm City Casino Resort in Davenport, Iowa, this family-friendly event has grown from a modest gathering into one of the most beloved and anticipated celebrations in Southeastern Iowa and Northwestern Illinois.
Our Beginnings
The Quad Cities Balloon Festival took flight in 2008 as a small community event, featuring just a handful of hot air balloons and a vision to bring people together. What started as a simple showcase of balloon launches has blossomed over the years, thanks to the passion of local organizers, pilots, and the unwavering support of our community. From its early days at the Rock Island County Fairgrounds to its current home at Rhythm City, the festival has evolved while staying true to its roots—celebrating wonder, freedom, and togetherness.
A Sky Full of Growth
Over the past decade and a half, the festival has soared to new heights. What began with a few balloons now features dozens of vibrant hot air balloons, from classic designs to whimsical special shapes, captivating attendees of all ages. The introduction of signature events like the mesmerizing Night Glow—where tethered balloons illuminate the night sky in a symphony of light and color—has turned the festival into a must-see spectacle. Add in balloon launches, tethered rides, live music, food vendors, and kids’ activities, and it’s no wonder the Quad Cities Balloon Festival has become a cornerstone of summer in the region.
Over the past decade and a half, the festival has soared to new heights. What began with a few balloons now features dozens of vibrant hot air balloons, from classic designs to whimsical special shapes, captivating attendees of all ages. The introduction of signature events like the mesmerizing Night Glow—where tethered balloons illuminate the night sky in a symphony of light and color—has turned the festival into a must-see spectacle. Add in balloon launches, tethered rides, live music, food vendors, and kids’ activities, and it’s no wonder the Quad Cities Balloon Festival has become a cornerstone of summer in the region.
A Community Celebration
Our growth isn’t just measured in balloons or crowds—it’s in the connections we’ve fostered. Each year, families spread out blankets and lawn chairs, kids chase the thrill of bounce houses, and visitors marvel as balloons lift off against the backdrop of the Quad Cities skyline. The festival’s free admission, paired with its support for local causes like the Quad City Veterans Outreach Center and other nonprofits, reflects our commitment to giving back. It’s a place where neighbors become friends, and visitors leave with memories that last a lifetime.
Why We’re Great
Today, the Quad Cities Balloon Festival stands as one of the area’s great events because it’s more than just a show—it’s an experience. It combines the awe-inspiring beauty of hot air ballooning with the warmth of a tight-knit community. Pilots from across the Midwest bring their expertise and enthusiasm, while local businesses and volunteers keep the spirit alive. Weather permitting, the sight of balloons drifting into the evening sky or glowing at dusk has become a symbol of summer joy in the Quad Cities, drawing thousands of attendees and earning a reputation as a can’t-miss tradition.
Join Us!
As we look to the future, we invite you to be part of this incredible journey. Whether you’re a first-timer or a festival regular, the Quad Cities Balloon Festival promises a weekend of wonder, excitement, and unity. Check our schedule, plan your visit, and come see why we’ve become one of the great events in the Quad Cities—a celebration that truly takes off!