Gunnison Balloon Rally

The Gunnison Balloon Rally returns July 3, 4, and 5, 2026.

This annual community event is centered around sunrise hot air balloon launches from Jorgensen Park over Fourth of July weekend, with tethered balloons on July 4 on the Western Colorado University lawn in front of the Rady Building. Weather permitting, pilots lift off in the early morning hours, filling the Gunnison sky with color and bringing residents and visitors together for a beloved summer tradition.

This year, we are excited to add a hot air balloon glow at Jorgensen Park on the evening of July 3.

Free to attend, the Gunnison Balloon Rally has become a long-standing part of Gunnison’s seasonal calendar and a colorful way to celebrate the holiday weekend.