Up, Up, and Away in Muskogee: Hot Air Balloons

The Muskogee Hot Air Balloon Festival (formerly the Oklahoma Festival of Ballooning) is back, and it's kicking off a whole new chapter! Join us as we break down everything you need to know about this action-packed weekend at Hatbox Event Park. Muskogee Tourism Director Justin O'Neal highlights a massive focus on live music this year—pairing top-tier concerts with all the classic, high-flying family favorites you love. Whether you're taking to the skies, running a 5K among the balloons, or rocking out to Oklahoma's own country star Kaitlin Butts, this is an August weekend you won't want to miss! 📍 Event Details At-A-Glance When: Friday, August 21 & Saturday, August 22, 2026 Where: Hatbox Event Park (4000 Border Ave / 640 S 40th St, Muskogee, OK) Gates Open: 5:00 PM nightly | Live Music: 7:00 PM nightly 🎈 Sky-High Attractions Nightly Balloon Glow & Fireworks: Watch the evening sky light up with colorful, glowing hot air balloons, followed by a grand finale fireworks display every single night! Tethered Balloon Rides: Take a mini-flight on-site during the festival for a bird's-eye view of the grounds (no reservations needed!). Chartered Rides: Want the ultimate adventure? Full-charter flights are available Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (call ahead to book). Up Up & Away 5K: Saturday morning (Aug 22) at 7:30 AM—run a scenic course surrounded by hot air balloons! 🎵 Live Music Lineup Friday Night (Aug 21): Oklahoma's own Kaitlin Butts headlining, with special guests The Red Dirt Rangers. Saturday Night (Aug 22): New Orleans legends Dirty Dozen Brass Band, with special guests The Full Flava Kings. 🍔 Family Fun & Admission Free Kid Zone: Loaded with activities to keep the little ones entertained. Food & Shopping: Local food trucks and artisan vendors packed throughout the park. Admission: FREE! General Parking: $20 per vehicle (cash/card at the gate). Premium Parking: $30 per night or $55 for a Weekend Combo Pass (purchase online or at the Muskogee Civic Center Box Office). 🔗 Connect & Learn More Website: VisitMuskogee.com Phone: 918-684-6302 #OnlyInOK #VisitMuskogee #MuskogeeOK #OklahomaEvents #HotAirBalloonFestival #HatboxEventPark #KaitlinButts #RedDirtRangers #DirtyDozenBrassBand #ExploreOklahoma #OKTourism #FamilyFunOK