Great Galena Balloon Race
Fri, Jun 19 – Sun, Jun 21, 2026 • 5:00pm - 10:00pm
444 Eagle Ridge Drive, Galena, IL 61036
Hot Air Balloon Race and Festival in Galena!
Explore these magical inventions at this spectacular three-day event. Get right up close to the balloons and learn all about them.
This event features more than 20 hot air balloons, three races, a night glow extravaganza, live music, an art show, car show, and activities for the whole family.
The Great Galena Art Show takes over the Big Tent on Saturday night. Local artists show and sell amazing art at an event.
The Great Galena Balloon Race benefits JDRF and Camp Hertko Hollow. The event has raised more than $350,000 for kids with diabetes since it began in 2002.
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More Information
Shuttle runs every 15 minutes. Parking & Shuttle Locations:
-Big Field - bottom of Mt. Hope R
-South Course parking lot
-East Course parking lot
Cash event - no credit cards/ATM on site
$5 per adult $5 per child over 3 years old - at the gate
How to find us?
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