CANCELED – Calvert City Balloon Glow
The Calvert City Balloon Glow organizers have made the difficult decision to cancel this weekend’s balloon event. The balloon pilots are trained and qualified to evaluate the weather forecast and current conditions to decide if it is safe for ballooning. The City of Calvert City and other event organizers collectively decided for the safety of all to cancel the weekend festivities.
Hot air balloons are incredibly sensitive to weather changes, as even moderate winds or rain can make ballooning dangerous. Balloon pilots rely on calm and stable weather for safe flights, and unfortunately, the forecast does not support those conditions. Your safety, and that of the pilots and crew, is our top priority.
We understand how disappointing this is, as we were all looking forward to the beautiful sight of glowing balloons lighting up Calvert City. We are actively exploring a reschedule date and will provide updates as soon as they become available. We appreciate your understanding and support, and we look forward to new dates for the Calvert City Balloon Glow.
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VENUE Map and Shuttle/Parking Info 2024 Balloon Glow
Calvert City is excited to announce the launch of the inaugural Calvert City Balloon Glow, a family-friendly event set to light up Memorial Park on September 13 and 14 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM each night. This free two-day celebration promises to be an unforgettable experience. It will feature an array of old-fashioned carnival games, live music, food trucks, local artisan vendors, and a stunning display of glowing hot air balloons. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors for a weekend filled with hot air! The Calvert City Balloon Glow is proudly co-sponsored by the Kentucky Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau, Calvert Area Development Association, and the City of Calvert City.
Event Highlights:
Balloon Glow:
As the sun sets, witness a breathtaking spectacle of hot air balloons lighting up Memorial Park. 7 PM – 8 PM on Friday and Saturday night (weather permitting)
Carnival Games:
Nostalgic games for kids and adults alike. 5-8 PM, Friday and Saturday night
These carnival games are sponsored by amazing local businesses and organizations! BIG Thank you to Custom Automotive, State Farm – Hilary Washer, Calvert City Agent, 50’s Cafe, Re/MAZ Reality Group – Maizie Martin, Marshall County Public Library, Calvert City Elementary, Crossroads Methodist Church, and Calvert Area Development Association
Live Music
Enjoy performances from talented local musicians throughout the evening. 5:30 – 7:30 PM.
Friday – Drew Veazey – 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Saturday – Homemade Jam Band – 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Artisan Vendors
Browse handmade crafts from local vendors. 5-8 PM, Friday and Saturday night. We are no longer accepting vendors for this event.
Tethered Balloon Rides
Get a bird’s-eye view of Calvert City for just $20 per person (weather permitting). Friday and Saturday from 5-8 PM, 6 years and older, parent signature required if under 18. Tethering will start promptly at 5 PM and end at 8 PM, even if there is still a line. Weather permitting, the tether will last 10 minutes, going to 75-100 ft in the air.
Competitive Flights
For those looking for an early morning adventure, join us on September 14 and 15, between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM, as the balloons take flight in a competitive race over Calvert City. Balloons will soar towards Doctors Park, making for a thrilling morning spectacle. For a more immersive experience, full hot air balloon rides are available for $250 per person, with sign-ups at the tethered ride tent during the Balloon Glow. A limited number of spaces are available to have a ride along with the hot air balloon pilots. Registration for the competitive flight will be at the balloon glow (Calvert City Tent) and is first come, first-served.
Parking & Shuttle Information
Additional event parking and shuttle will be available at the following locations:
- Pathway Baptist Church, 229 W 5th Ave, Calvert City, KY 42029
- Calvert City Elementary, 536 5th Ave, Calvert City, KY 42029
- Calvert City Old Park, 1674 E 5th Ave, Calvert City, KY 42029.
If you are handicapped, there are limited spots in Memorial Park (the venue). However, taking the shuttle at one of the three shuttle stops (listed above) guarantees limited walking to the venue as the shuttle will pick you up at your parking lot and drop you off at the venue.
Shuttle service will be provided between these locations and Memorial Park. Click the link below for more information on Parking and Shuttle Services.
Shuttle/Parking Information Click HERE.
Weather Notice
All balloon-related activities are weather permitting. Stay tuned to the latest weather updates and announcements from our pilots for balloon activities on our social media channels! Hot air balloons only fly at sunrise or within an hour of sunset when the winds are more predictable and calm. There are also other factors, such as heat thermals and atmospheric pressure that our pilots have to consider. So what does this mean for the festival? If weather permits – look to the skies between 6 AM and 8 AM on Saturday (14) and Sunday (15) morning to see them take flight or enjoy a balloon glow on the festival grounds from 5-8 PM Friday (13) and Saturday (14) night. There are also interactive balloon activities to enjoy during the day.
Contact Information
For more information, please call Calvert City Hall at (270) 395-7138 or email info@calvertcityky.gov.