Washington Parish Balloon Festival to lift off this weekend

Published 1:00 pm Wednesday, May 28, 2025

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SPECIAL TO THE DAILY NEWS 

Get ready for an unforgettable experience as the skies over Franklinton, Louisiana come alive with color and excitement! The Washington Parish Balloon Festival is returning to the Washington Parish Fairgrounds from May 30 through June 1, and it promises a weekend packed with hot air balloons, live music, family fun, and all the vibrant community spirit Louisiana is known for.

Whether you’re a balloon enthusiast or just looking for a weekend of wholesome entertainment, this year’s festival has something for everyone. From dazzling balloon glows to tethered rides, visitors can get up close and personal with these beautiful floating giants. Just remember—balloon events are weather dependent, and safety always comes first for guests and balloon handlers alike. If it’s not on the schedule, it’s not flying!

 Balloon & Activity Schedule

Friday, May 30

• 5:00 PM – Gates Open & Welcome Introductions

• 6:30 PM – Tethered Rides

• 7:45 PM – Balloon Glow

• 10:00 PM – Gates Close

Saturday, June 1

• 6:30 AM – Sponsor/Competition Flight

• 12:00 PM – Gates Open

• 4:00 PM – Visiting Queens

• 5:00 PM – Fun Flight

• 5:30 PM – Tethered Rides

• 7:30 PM – Rodeo

• 7:45 PM – Balloon Glow

• 10:00 PM – Gates Close

Sunday, June 2

• 6:30 AM – Sponsor/Competition Flight

• 12:00 PM – Gates Open

• 5:00 PM – Fun Flight

• 5:30 PM – Tethered Rides

• 6:45 PM – Balloon Glow

• 9:00 PM – Gates Close

🎶 Live Music Lineup

The stage will be rocking all weekend with a stellar lineup of local and regional talent:

Friday, May 30

• 6:00 PM – Jourdan Blue

• 8:00 PM – Chase Tyler Band

Saturday, June 1

• 12:00 PM – Birdie’s Boyz

• 2:00 PM – Zack Holliday

• 5:00 PM – Sam Foshey Blues Band

• 8:00 PM – Rhythmn Chasers Band

Sunday, June 2

• 12:00 PM – Jared Daws Band

• 2:00 PM – The Starz Band Live

• 4:00 PM – Wayward Jones

• 6:00 PM – Eric Sharp and Johnny Ringo Music

 Plan Your Visit

Bring the family, invite your friends, and make memories that soar! Whether you’re there for the glowing balloons, the great food, or the toe-tapping tunes, the Washington Parish Balloon Festival is the place to be.

For more details, schedules, and updates, visit www.wpballoonfest.com.

Don’t miss your chance to rise above the ordinary—see you at the fairgrounds!