RED RIVER BALLOON RALLY
Friday, July 10 - Saturday, July 11, 2026
The Red River Balloon Rally at Louisiana Downs in Bossier City is a colorful, fun-filled annual hot-air balloon celebration with a family-friendly schedule of indoor and outdoor events. The two days include live music, balloon races, a variety of vendors offering festival food and handmade gifts, and kid-friendly activities.
Family-Friendly Attractions for Everyone
More than two dozen balloons take center stage in featured events, including the Balloon Glow, Louisiana State Ballooning Championship, and tethered balloon rides. Louisiana Downs will have food and drink concessions, a Kid’s Zone, farmers market vendors, and live music. Every evening will end with a fireworks display. Indoor and outdoor viewing opportunities are available.
Experience the Magic of the Balloon Glow
The Balloon Glow in the evenings is a highlight of the rally, showcasing the dazzling array of colors as the pilots use their flaming propulsion systems to cast a coordinated glow against a backdrop of music.
Louisiana State Ballooning Championship
Starting at dawn on both days when winds are calm, balloons float overhead with the mission of dropping a bag onto targets placed on the ground. Whoever hits the bullseye is the winner. Don’t forget to look up! The balloons can be viewed competing up in the sky throughout Shreveport-Bossier.
Event Highlights
Friday, July 10
5:00pm- Gates Open
5:00pm-6:00pm: Music by Cumulus Media
6:00pm-7:00pm- TBD
6:00pm-Until – Tether Balloon Rides (Weather Permitting) $25 per person
7:15pm-8:30pm- TBD
8:11pm-9:15pm- Balloon Glow
9:15pm-10:00pm- TBD
9:45pm-9:52pm- Fireworks Show sponsored by Team Logic IT
Saturday, July 11
5:00pm- Gates Open
5:00pm-6:00pm: Music by Cumulus Media
6:00pm-7:00pm- TBD
6:00pm-Until – Tether Balloon Rides (Weather Permitting) $25 per person
7:15pm-8:30pm- TBD
8:11pm-9:15pm- Balloon Glow
9:15pm-10:00pm- TBD
9:45pm-9:52pm- Fireworks Show sponsored by Stuart’s Integrated Services
All times are approximate and schedule may change without notice. All events are subject to weather delays or cancellations.
Red River Balloon Rally Tickets
$5 per ticket. Available at the gate only. Kids age 5 and under are free.
Where to Park
Free parking is available at Louisiana Downs Racetrack and Casino.
Where to Stay
To fully enjoy the festivities, consider staying near Louisiana Downs. Various hotels are available to suit different budgets and preferences, and they offer convenient access to the event grounds.
Whether you seek a family-friendly suite, a comfortable room near the casino's excitement, or a relaxed extended-stay option, Shreveport-Bossier has you covered.
What You Can Bring
Stadium seating is available. Blankets and chairs are allowed. The official Red River Balloon Rally website shows a list of prohibited items. Don’t miss the excitement of the Red River Balloon Rally in Shreveport-Bossier!
Sign Up to Volunteer
Spots are limited, so be sure to secure your place early. Whether you’re volunteering solo, with friends, or as part of a group, your time and energy will help make this event a success.
Join us and help bring the sky to life at the Red River Balloon Rally! Sign up today.
