The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race is Mississippi's most exciting festival! Pilots compete to win prizes Saturday and Sunday mornings by tossing out sandbags onto a large ground target! See the beautiful array of balloons as they fly over the cities of Natchez, Vidalia, and the Mississippi River. Our balloon festival weekend starts with the Friday Morning Media/Biathlon Flight and continues through Sunday evening with a stage full of World Renowned Musicians. The festival takes place on the grounds of Rosalie Bicentennial Gardens (CLICK FOR MAP), On Broadway Street in historic downtown Natchez.
Come and enjoy the live music all weekend long! The festival grounds feature a carnival section with plenty of rides, games and fun for children of all ages. Watch college football on Saturday and the New Orleans Saints on Sunday at the popular Sports Bar Tent! There’s always plenty of food to choose from when you get hungry, even a selection from some local chefs!
The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race has become a popular tradition here every October, so make your hotel or bed and breakfast reservations early. For more info about Hotel or Bed and Breakfast accommodations see VisitNatchez.org or NatchezMS.com Many people ask us about take off and landing locations. Due to the nature of our race, those locations change frequently. We can tell you that the best place to watch is from the festival grounds!
PLEASE! No pets, ice chests, tents, food or drink from outside the gates, weapons, or illegal substances. Security will check bags, backpacks, strollers and wagons at all entrances for your safety. These items are not permitted and this rule will be enforced at all entries to the festival ground, no exceptions. Thank you!
