We sat idling in our camper van, tucked into a slow-moving line of headlights, anticipation building with every passing minute. Ahead of us, somewhere beyond the predawn darkness, dozens of hot air balloons were preparing to lift into the morning sky. Twenty minutes later, we rolled into the paved parking lot at Wild Horse Pass Festival Grounds (19593 S. 48th St., Chandler, AZ 85226) for the 15th Annual Arizona Balloon Classic. A $10, credit-card-only parking fee felt like a small price to pay for what lay ahead. Especially when we scored a pull-through spot, my favorite kind of parking and the easiest exit after any event.
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Arizona Balloon Classic Entrance
Arizona mornings can be deceptive. At 7 a.m., the temperature hovered at a crisp 37 degrees Fahrenheit. We layered up. Long sleeves, warm jackets, two layers of pants. Topped with beanies, hoodies, and gloves. With our clear backpack filled with camera gear and a lawn chair (which we ultimately didn’t need), we made our way toward the entrance, tickets in hand.
We couldn’t have asked for better conditions. Clear skies. Barely a whisper of wind. The gates opened promptly at 7 a.m., and by 7:30 the morning balloon ascensions and task competitions were set to begin. As we stepped onto the airfield, a balloon was already being assembled. Standing this close, watching the envelope slowly come to life, was mesmerizing. When the burners fired, the roar of heat was nearly deafening. Intense, powerful, and undeniably thrilling. Flames shot upward, the basket steadied, and soon the pilot and crew, along with a few paid passengers, climbed aboard. Yes, you can prebook a ride. What a way to see the Valley from above.
Arizona Balloon Classic Task Competitions
After several balloons lifted gracefully into the sky, the announcer’s voice echoed across the field: “Everyone off the field for the task competitions.” We learned that the balloons would launch from about a mile away, then float back toward the grounds. The challenge? Dip low enough to grab a round token from a long pole held by a field representative, then drop a ribbon as close as possible to a large X marked on the ground.
Balloons drifted overhead, their vibrant colors and playful patterns filling the sky. Some were branded, others clearly personal. Each one unique. The pilots and passengers waved down at us as the crowd waved back, smiles everywhere. A few pilots nailed the task with impressive precision. Others missed the field entirely, carried off by stronger winds higher above that pushed them right past us.
Watching it all unfold, I couldn’t help but think how difficult those tasks must be. Without countless hours in a basket, floating at the mercy of wind and skill, I doubt I’d come close. I’ve only experienced a tethered balloon ride, and seeing this made me wonder. Maybe someday I’ll take the leap and fly free.
Arizona Balloon Classic Vendors
Once the morning ascensions and competitions wrapped up, we wandered through the vendor booths. Unsurprisingly, the coffee stand was the most popular stop of the morning, with temperatures still lingering in the low 40s. From hot drinks to whimsical hot air balloon souvenirs, there was no shortage of keepsakes to remember the day.
All in all, it was a beautiful morning and one we’re truly glad we experienced. If you find yourself in the area next year for the 16th Annual Arizona Balloon Classic, we highly recommend attending. And for an added layer of magic, return after sunset, the Evening Balloon Glow lights up the night from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., offering an entirely different, equally unforgettable experience.
If you loved this experience, be sure to read our blog about the New Mexico Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, where the scale is bigger, the skies are fuller, and the adventure takes balloon magic to an entirely new level.
