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

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

Author: Harley Covington and Brett Manzer August 10, 2026 Duration: 45:05

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

#OnlyInOK #VisitMuskogee #MuskogeeOK #OklahomaEvents #HotAirBalloonFestival #HatboxEventPark #KaitlinButts #RedDirtRangers #DirtyDozenBrassBand #ExploreOklahoma #OKTourism #FamilyFunOK


Hosts Harley Covington and Brett Manzer invite you to join them on the Only in Oklahoma Show, a podcast dedicated to uncovering the genuine character of the state. This isn't a typical travel guide; it's a series of conversations and explorations focused on the unique people, local spots, and compelling narratives that collectively define Oklahoma's identity. Each episode moves beyond the stereotypes to reveal why the state is a profoundly underrated destination, even to many who live there. You'll hear from community pillars, creative minds, and keepers of history whose stories are woven into the landscape. The podcast digs into the cultural and societal layers that make a place feel like home, covering everything from hidden roadside attractions and regional cuisine to contemporary issues shaping local towns. It’s an audio tour driven by curiosity and a desire to showcase that Oklahoma is far more than just "OK." Tune in for an authentic and engaging perspective that might just change how you see this part of the country, all delivered by the award-winning team behind the microphone.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

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