Red River Balloon Rally: Beloved Louisiana Event

This summer, experience Shreveport-Bossier’s vibrant Red River Balloon Rally.  

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See the Red River Balloon Rally glow at night.
Red River Balloon Rally

See the Red River Balloon Rally glow at night.

The Red River Balloon Rally in Shreveport draws families from around the region.

The Red River Balloon Rally in Shreveport draws families from around the region.

Enjoy live music and great food at the Red River Balloon Rally.

Enjoy live music and great food at the Red River Balloon Rally.

At a Glance 

  • The Red River Balloon Rally is one of Louisiana's premier hot air balloon festivals, held annually in the Shreveport-Bossier area.
  • The family-friendly event features colorful hot air balloons, competitive flights, tethered rides, live music, food vendors, fireworks and activities for all ages.

Head up, up and away to Louisiana this June for Shreveport-Bossier’s  Red River Balloon Rally. This family-friendly event welcomes everyone to enjoy a colorful field of fun, complete with balloon rides, live music and specialty food vendors.

Exciting Activities for the Whole Family

Enjoy competitive balloon flights, professional kite flying exhibitions, specialty vendors, tethered balloon rides and the Kidz Fun Zone during this jam-packed weekend. Groove to live performances from regional and national artists;keep an eye out for vibrant, specially-shaped hot air balloons shaped like beloved cartoon characters; watch as larger-than-life balloons glow; and catch a dazzling fireworks show over the main stage. 

Red River Rally is the perfect way to spend a weekend in Shreveport-Bossier this summer. For more information and to buy tickets, visit redriverballoonrally.com

Extend Your Stay: Family-Friendly Ideas in Shreveport-Bossier

Explore the Shreveport Aquarium

See more than 1,000 animals at the Shreveport Aquarium, an immersive aquatic gallery located on the city’s beautiful riverfront. Learn about sharks, seahorses, eels and other mesmerizing sea creatures.

Experience an Adventure Park

Discover the area's lush natural scenery. At Gators & Friends Adventure Park, zip-line over coastal swamps, pet baby alligators and learn about the state's diverse ecosystem.

Other Family-Friendly Festivals in Shreveport-Bossier

Don’t miss Shreveport's other family-friendly festivals, like Mudbug Madness Festival and Red River Revel Arts Festival. Looking for more day-trip suggestions? Check out our top recommendations for spending a day in Shreveport.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the Red River Balloon Rally? 

The Red River Balloon Rally is an annual hot air balloon festival held in Shreveport-Bossier, Louisiana. The event features colorful balloon launches, balloon glows, tethered rides, live music, food vendors, family activities and the Louisiana State Ballooning Championship. 

Where is the Red River Balloon Rally held? 

The Red River Balloon Rally is typically held in the Shreveport-Bossier area, with recent events taking place at Louisiana Downs in Bossier City. Visitors can enjoy balloon activities alongside entertainment, food and family-friendly attractions. 

When does the Red River Balloon Rally take place? 

The event is traditionally held during the summer and attracts visitors from across Louisiana and neighboring states. Dates vary each year, so attendees should check the official event website for the latest schedule and ticket information. 

Can visitors ride in a hot air balloon at the Red River Balloon Rally? 

Yes, the festival typically offers tethered balloon rides, giving guests the opportunity to experience the sensation of floating above the festival grounds while remaining safely secured to the ground. Availability may depend on weather conditions. 

Is the Red River Balloon Rally family friendly? 

Yes, the event is designed for visitors of all ages and typically includes kid zones, interactive activities, entertainment, food vendors, specialty vendors, kite exhibitions and opportunities to see hot air balloons up close. 

What should I bring to the Red River Balloon Rally? 

Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera and water are recommended. Since many balloon activities take place outdoors, visitors should also monitor weather forecasts and prepare for warm Louisiana summer temperatures.