Winthrop Balloon Roundup 2026 (Official Page)

Welcome to the Winthrop Balloon Roundup 2026!

Date: Friday, March 6th 2026- Sunday, March 8th 2026

Location: Winthrop, WA

Winthrop, WA – The 2026 Winthrop Hot Air Balloon Festival is set to bring a colorful show over the Methow Valley, offering an exciting weekend of hot air balloon launches, community events, and breathtaking views. This year’s festival will take place from Friday, March 6th to Sunday, March 8th, and promises something for everyone, whether you’re an early riser eager to see the balloons launch or a night owl ready to experience the awe-inspiring Balloon Night Glow.

Balloon Launches: Weather permitting, the festival’s signature hot air balloon launches will take place each morning at 7:00am, with balloons inflating behind The Winthrop Inn and Abbycreek Inn (located on Hwy 20 at the south end of Winthrop, 960/1006 Highway 20). The balloons generally stay aloft until about 9:00am, offering an unforgettable sight as they soar over the picturesque Methow Valley. Spectators are encouraged to arrive by 6:45am for the best view.

Friday, March 6th:

• Balloon Inflation & Launch: 7:00am - 9:00am
• Pilot’s Lift Off Party: 6:30pm - 10:00pm at the Winthrop Barn Auditorium. Enjoy a cocktail reception with the pilots, guests, and event spectators. Cash bar available.

Saturday, March 7th:

• Balloon Inflation & Launch: 7:00am - 9:00am
• Pancake Breakfast: 7:00am - 11:00am at the Winthrop Barn, hosted by Winthrop Kiwanis. Funds raised will support programs for local children, including scholarships, hearing screenings, and more.
• Sip & Shop: 4:30pm - 6:30pm in downtown Winthrop. Enjoy wine tasting and exclusive shopping deals.
• Balloon Night Glow: 5:30pm - 7:00pm. Experience the magic of glowing balloons illuminating downtown Riverside Ave in a stunning visual display. This free public event is a must-see, with parking available at the Winthrop Barn Auditorium or Town Trailhead. (Please note: no pets or smoking at the event.)

Sunday, March 8th:

• Balloon Inflation & Launch: 7:00am - 9:00am

Fly in a Balloon: For those looking to take their experience to new heights, hot air balloon rides are available with commercial operators including Seattle Ballooning, Snohomish Balloon Ride, and Balloon Depot. Prices range from $350 to $400, and early booking is highly recommended as rides fill up quickly.

Important Notes:

• RSVP: This event is free to attend, but attendees are encouraged to RSVP online to receive event updates and weather-related information.
• Weather Permitting: All events are dependent on weather conditions. The balloons will decide each morning whether to launch based on current weather, which is often more favorable than expected in Winthrop’s micro-climate.
• Parking: Please park at Methow Valley Thriftway for the best access to the balloon launch site. Do not park on the highway or at Ace Hardware.

The Winthrop Hot Air Balloon Festival is proudly presented by the Winthrop Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Winthrop, and Okanogan County LTAC funds, with propane for the pilots and other event expenses generously provided by the Chamber. The festival is made possible by the support of local businesses and volunteers who come together to create this extraordinary community event.

Also check out other Festivals in Winthrop, Food & Drink events in Winthrop.