The Old West Balloon Fest in Western Nebraska is a family fun weekend for everyone from the ages of 1 to 100. Celebrating over a decade of flying, fun, and DREAMS. Many remember the event from the 1980’s and 1990’s and dreamt of the event coming back to the area. The event was “re-inflated” in 2015 to the delight of the community.
Come enjoy a spectacular show of the greatest magnitude. Hot air balloons fill the sky each morning for mass ascensions. Days are filled with activities, competition, and balloon glows to light up the evening sky.
There is an abundance of entertainment included in the low priced admission pass. And, it is good for the entire weekend of events — the best bargain in the valley!
The schedule of events and all activities for Old West Balloon Fest vary daily and are weather permitting. All festival events depend on prevailing weather conditions and are subject to delays or cancellations. Surface winds and winds aloft can vary greatly; maximum safe surface wind speeds are 7-8 mph. Although every effort is made for a successful balloon flight/glow, the safety of our pilots, volunteers, and spectators is our first priority.
If extreme weather conditions exist, notices will be posted via our Facebook page and announced through Rural Radio 94.1. Remember that the weather in Western Nebraska can change quickly, and last-minute fly or no fly decisions have to be made. Many other activities are scheduled at Mitchell Airfield for you to enjoy!
August 9, 2026
National Pilots Welcome Party and BBQ - Public is Welcome!
August 9, 2026
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Five Rocks Amphitheater, 2505 D St, Gering, NE 69341, USA
The Public is Welcome to Attend!
Come out and enjoy a BBQ while welcoming the US National Hot Air Balloon Competition pilots to the area. We can't wait to see you there!
August 10, 2026
US National Hot Air Balloon Competition - Morning Competition
August 10, 2026
6:00 AM - 10:00 AM
To Be Announced
Daily competition will take place with task locations in Scotts Bluff County. For the public viewing area, follow us on social media or tune into 94.1 KNEB for details on where you can view the competition.
US National Hot Air Balloon Competition - Evening Competition
August 10, 2026
5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
To Be Announced
Daily competition will take place with task locations in Scotts Bluff County. For the public viewing area, follow us on social media or tune into 94.1 KNEB for details on where you can view the competition.
August 11, 2026
US National Hot Air Balloon Competition - Morning Competition
August 11, 2026
6:00 AM - 10:00 AM
To Be Announced
Daily competition will take place with task locations in Scotts Bluff County. For the public viewing area, follow us on social media or tune into 94.1 KNEB for details on where you can view the competition.
US National Hot Air Balloon Competition - Evening Competition
August 11, 2026
5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
To Be Announced
Daily competition will take place with task locations in Scotts Bluff County. For the public viewing area, follow us on social media or tune into 94.1 KNEB for details on where you can view the competition.
August 12, 2026
US National Hot Air Balloon Competition - Morning Competition
August 12, 2026
6:00 AM - 10:00 AM
To Be Announced
Daily competition will take place with task locations in Scotts Bluff County. For the public viewing area, follow us on social media or tune into 94.1 KNEB for details on where you can view the competition.
US National Hot Air Balloon Competition - Evening Competition
August 12, 2026
5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
To Be Announced
Daily competition will take place with task locations in Scotts Bluff County. For the public viewing area, follow us on social media or tune into 94.1 KNEB for details on where you can view the competition.
August 13, 2026
US National Hot Air Balloon Competition - Morning Competition
August 13, 2026
6:00 AM - 10:00 AM
To Be Announced
Daily competition will take place with task locations in Scotts Bluff County. For the public viewing area, follow us on social media or tune into 94.1 KNEB for details on where you can view the competition.
Night Glow at WNCC - Kickoff Celebration
August 13, 2026
5:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Western Nebraska Community College, 1601 E 27th St, Scottsbluff, NE 69361, USA
Our 12th annual event kicks off with a night glow at Western Nebraska Community College celebrating their 100th anniversary.
This is where it all starts. Enjoy your first look at the festival balloons on the WNCC campus. The balloons are just north of the main campus. You can also enjoy food trucks and other vendors, so come and join us!
Gates open at 5:30pm
WNCC Event Map
August 14, 2026
Craft Fair
August 14, 2026
5:30 AM - 9:30 AM
Mitchell Airfield, 60653 Mitchell South Rd, Mitchell, NE 69357, USA
Nothing says community like “balloon fest” and “craft fair!” We feature over 75 craft vendors. You’ll find local favorites as well as new crafters you are sure to love. Our yearly craft fair is fun for all.
Come shop at our Craft Fair each day, and night, of our event!
August 15, 2026
Craft Fair
August 15, 2026
5:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Mitchell Airfield, 60653 Mitchell South Rd, Mitchell, NE 69357, USA
Nothing says community like “balloon fest” and “craft fair!” We feature over 75 craft vendors. You’ll find local favorites as well as new crafters you are sure to love. Our yearly craft fair is fun for all.
Come shop at our Craft Fair each day, and night, of our event!
6th annual Old West Balloon Fest Wiener Dog Championships
August 15, 2026
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Mitchell Airfield, 60653 Mitchell South Rd, Mitchell, NE 69357, USA
Please register your Dachshund (must be at least 75% wiener) for the 6th annual Old West Balloon Fest Wiener Dog Championships.
The race will be held on August 15, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Mitchell Airfield.
The minimum age to compete is 12 weeks. There is no fee to register, however we will collect good will donations on the day of the race. All monies collected will go to the Panhandle Humane Society.
Register Now
Craft Fair
August 15, 2026
5:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Mitchell Airfield, 60653 Mitchell South Rd, Mitchell, NE 69357, USA
Nothing says community like “balloon fest” and “craft fair!” We feature over 75 craft vendors. You’ll find local favorites as well as new crafters you are sure to love. Our yearly craft fair is fun for all.
Come shop at our Craft Fair each day, and night, of our event!
Night Glow, Music, Food, & Beer Garden
August 15, 2026
5:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Mitchell Airfield, 60653 Mitchell South Rd, Mitchell, NE 69357, USA
Come out to Mitchell Airfield for our final night of events. Tonight you can enjoy the night glow, music, food trucks, and beer garden!
Gates open at 5:30pm
Mitchell Airfield Event Map
