2016 Great Texas Balloon Race July 22-24

If you missed the balloon races in Shreveport last week, have no worries because another balloonfest will be taking place in Longview, Texas this weekend. The 2016 Great Texas Balloon Race is July 22-24 featuring some of the most competitive pilots from all across the country.

Balloon glows will delight crowds of all ages on both Friday and Saturday night giving spectators an up close and personal view of the balloons. There will be live entertainment from Restless Heart at 9:30PM on Friday evening and Texas Artists the Darrin Morris Band will perform at 6:30PM and Aaron Watson takes the stage on Saturday night at 9:30PM. Arts & Crafts and plenty of food vendors will be on hand too for this event with plenty of activities for the kids. There is a additional $5 fee for Kids Land.

Balloon flights will begin on Friday morning over the city of Longview and continue through Sunday morning over East Texas Regional Airport. Keep in mind that launching and landing sites can change daily depending on the wind and weather conditions. Character balloons and special shaped balloons will be a part of the festivities on Friday morning.

Most activities for the 2016 Great Texas Balloon Race take place at the East Texas Regional Airport. Launching sites for the balloons will be two miles from the airport and the balloons will fly over the festival area at the airport. (See schedule)

In 2013 Gregg County was proclaimed "The Balloon Capital of Texas" by the 83rd Texas Legislature.

For ticket admission and more information visit their website.