Angola Balloons Aloft

Angola Balloons Aloft is Indiana's premier hot air balloon competition held annually at Angola High School in Steuben County, usually over two days. The 2025 event is scheduled for July 11-12. It features more than 30 hot air balloons competing for cash and prizes, with pilots from multiple continents participating in this competition that awards points toward national rankings.

The atmosphere is family-friendly, free to attend, and festive, with a vibe described as uplifting and community-centered. The event showcases vibrant balloon competition flights, including evening balloon illuminations that feature glowing balloons and special themes like Looney Tunes characters. This creates a spectacular visual experience at dusk.

Additional activities around the balloon flights include:

• A kid’s fun zone designed for children’s entertainment.
• A classic car show that typically runs on Saturday.
• Approximately 18 different food vendors providing diverse dining options.
• Live music performances that enhance the festive atmosphere.

The main location is Angola High School, which is handicap accessible. Flights and most main events happen on Friday evening and Saturday morning, with the bulk of the festival activities concentrated on Saturday.

Historical Context: The event began approximately 16 years ago, initially hosting about five balloons at the Tri-State Airport near Angola. Over time, it expanded to attract up to 40 balloons at its peak, consistently maintaining around 30 to 35 balloons in recent years. It has grown to be a significant cultural and recreational highlight for Northeast Indiana, drawing thousands of visitors yearly.

Typical Schedule Highlights:

• Friday evening: Balloon competition flights and balloon illuminations begin.
• Saturday morning: Competition balloon flights continue alongside festival activities.
• Saturday throughout the day: Classic car show, live music, food vendors, kid’s fun zone, and balloon illuminations in the evening.

This blend of competitive sporting event and community festival creates a unique experience, combining visual spectacle with family-friendly entertainment and a welcoming small-town setting. The event is strongly supported by sponsors, allowing free admission and making it an accessible gathering for the community.

For more information or specific scheduling updates, contacting the event at (260) 665-5386 or visiting the official website is recommended.