CANTON, MISS. – The skies over Canton will fill with color June 27–29, 2025, as the 40th Annual Mississippi Championship Hot Air Balloon Fest returns. This long-running summer tradition draws thousands of visitors from across Mississippi and beyond for a weekend of family-friendly fun, live entertainment, and, of course, hot air balloons.
The festival begins Thursday, June 26, with a special Media Flight. Balloon launches will continue throughout the weekend, weather permitting, offering spectators multiple opportunities to see more than 20 colorful balloons, including the crowd-favorite special shape, Koola Koala.
Evening Balloon Glow events—held in both Canton and Ridgeland—are among the most popular attractions. These glows happen at dusk and feature balloons lit from within, creating a dramatic effect against the night sky.
On Saturday, June 28, the Canton Multipurpose Center (501 Soldier Colony Road) will host the main festival day, with live music from the 41st Army Band’s Jazz Combo and Blues Brigade, followed by the Travelin’ Jane Band. Guests can also enjoy a Balloon Chase Bike Ride, 5K Run/Walk, and a kids’ ¼ Mile Fun Run. The evening ends with a fireworks show. Activities run from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
This year marks a major milestone—40 years of ballooning in Canton. The Canton Convention and Visitors Bureau is proud to celebrate four decades of tradition, community, and sky-high sights.
The festival is presented by Canton Tourism in collaboration with the City of Ridgeland and The Good Samaritan Center. All events are free. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early and bring lawn chairs or blankets.
For the full schedule and more information, visit CantonTourism.com.
