BOSSIER CITY, La. (KSLA) – The Delta Utilities Red River Balloon Rally is returning to Louisiana Downs this weekend (July 10-11).
This year’s event marks 10 years of hot air balloons, family fun, and community. The event is hosted by the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission with Visit Shreveport-Bossier. This year’s rally features:
- balloon glows
- tethered balloon rides
- fireworks
- special anniversary display (Xfinity Drone Show)
Since its start in 2016, the Red River Balloon Rally has become one of the area’s favorite summer festivals, combining the Louisiana State Ballooning Championship with family-friendly entertainment.
Twenty-five of the country’s top balloon pilots will compete in the championship by launching from a location of their choice and racing to drop a bean bag onto a designated target, with the hope of getting a bullseye. The pilot with the most points at the end of both flights will win the title of Louisiana State Ballooning Champion. The competition flights will be held Saturday and Sunday mornings from 6:30 to 8 a.m., weather permitting.
RED RIVER BALLOON RALLY LINEUP
- Live musical performances on the SWEPCO Stage
- Friday: That Girl DJ and Clay Logan
- Saturday: Rewind and Animals – the Maroon 5 Tribute Band
- Tethered balloon rides – $25 per person (cash only)
- FREE kids zone in the shaded area, sponsored by Cosse and Silmon Orthodontics
- Bossier City Farmers Market vendors (indoors and outdoors)
- Balloon Glow beginning at 8:15 p.m. each night, sponsored by Amazon
- Drone Show beginning at 9:15 p.m., sponsored by Xfinity
- Fireworks show beginning at 9:45 p.m., sponsored by Pyromania Fireworks
- Free parking
- Free pedicab rides to and from the entrance, provided by Noble Pedicab
“We’re proud to once again support the Red River Balloon Rally as title sponsor,” said Sam Walters, director of Delta Utilities. “Events like this bring families and neighbors together and showcase the unique spirit of Louisiana. At Delta Utilities, our commitment extends beyond reliable natural gas service — we invest in the communities we serve and initiatives that help them thrive. We look forward to a great weekend of music, family activities, and hot air balloons, and to sharing safety information that helps keep our communities safe year-round.”…