A free hot air balloon festival in Southern Alberta.

Rise Up Hot Air Balloon Festival is a free, family-friendly event happening in Medicine Hat, Alberta. Up to 35 balloons will float above the city from May 21-24, 2026!

Please Note: All flights are weather dependant. Follow @RiseUpYXH on Instagram and Facebook for updates and locations for each scheduled take-off, before and during the festival. Balloon rides are not available for 2026.

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Thursday, May 21

6am Flight: Location to be announced prior to flight on social media pages.

6pm Flight: Location to be announced prior to flight on social media pages.

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Friday, May 22

6am Flight: Location to be announced prior to flight on social media pages.

6pm Fight: Launch location is Kin Coulee Park

Dusk (8:30ish) Balloon Glow Neon Theme: Located in Kin Coulee Park, sponsored by CF Industries

Hot air balloons are inflated, illuminated, and tethered to the ground for people to meet the pilots and see the balloons up close. There will also be local food trucks and live entertainment!

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Saturday, May 23

6am Flight: Location to be announced prior to flight on social media pages.

6pm Fight: Launch location is Kin Coulee Park

Community Day: Located at the Medicine Hat College

9:30AM Hues for Humanity Colour Run, meeting point at 330 Gehring Road SW (Visitor Information Centre)
9-11AM Pancake Breakfast
10AM-4PM Rise Up Artisan Market
10AM-4PM Youth Art Party
11AM-3PM BBQ Party
12PM Movie Showing
3PM Movie Showing

Dusk (8:30ish) Balloon Glow Neon Theme: Located in Kin Coulee Park

Hot air balloons are inflated, illuminated, and tethered to the ground for people to meet the pilots and see the balloons up close. There will also be local food trucks and live entertainment!

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