Tigard's Festival of Balloons Takes to Oregon Skies This Weekend

Published 06/18/25 at 8:05 p.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Tigard, Oregon) - Here's a great way for a legal high here in Oregon. (Courtesy photos)

One of the Portland area's most treasured summer traditions returns to the skies this weekend, as the Tigard Festival of Balloons fills Cook Family Park with a vibrant blend of hot air balloon launches, live entertainment, and family fun from June 20 through 22.

Tigard - sort of Portland's little brother - gets especially luminous over the weekend.

Marking its annual celebration with the theme *“Ignite the Fun,”* the famed Oregon festival is expected to draw approximately 20,000 visitors over the three-day event. First light will bring the main attraction: daily hot air balloon launches scheduled from 5:45 to 6:15 a.m., followed by free tethered rides from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. for all ages - weather and pilot availability permitting. Balloons return at sunset Friday and Saturday for the dazzling NW Natural Night Glow spectacle.

Originally known as the Portland Hot Air Balloon Classic, the event was relocated to Tigard in 2004 and rebranded as the Tigard Festival of Balloons, LLC. It has since evolved into a key summer gathering, thanks to partnerships with the City of Tigard and the Tigard-Tualatin School District.

“We're thrilled to welcome the community back for another unforgettable year,” said Executive Director Cindy Murphy. “This year's theme is all about sparking joy, connection, and celebration for all ages.”

While no balloon flights are available during the festival, morning tethered rides are free with paid admission and provide a safe, scenic experience for early risers. Ballooning is limited to morning and evening hours due to thermal instability during the day caused by sun-heated ground surfaces.

This also causes a remarkable spectacle in other nearby parts of Oregon.

What else is happening around Oregon and the coast?

Military Truck Tours Back at Fort Stevens, Go Back in Time on N. Oregon Coast - Hop aboard a five-ton military truck and rove around the grounds, touring major World War II history.

Lincoln City Summer Kite Fest Returns, with Nod to Oregon Coast's Famed Pixieland - June 21 - 22 at the D River State Recreation Site brings thousands out to the beaches..

You may get to witness this in outside areas. Morning balloon paths depend on wind conditions, generally drifting southward over Tigard, Tualatin, Sherwood, Wilsonville, Aurora, or Woodburn. Balloons may remain visible in the sky longer depending on wind speed. Look to the skies in the Portland Metro area. See Full Inland Oregon Weather

Beyond the balloons, visitors can enjoy the Funtastic Carnival, Main Stage Entertainment, and a host of community activities. The nonprofit 501(c)(3) event supports numerous local organizations and community causes.

Check out Portland, Oregon Highway Traffic, Road Conditions - Traffic Cams: I-5 - I-205 - I-405 - Hwy 217 - I-84, including the Tigard area.

Advance ticket purchase is required. General admission is $17 for ages 7 and up (children 6 and under enter free). Weekend passes, valid all three days, are available exclusively online. On-site purchases can be made via QR code at the gate. Due to space limitations, parking passes are not sold in advance.

More information and the full schedule of events can be found at www.tigardballoon.org or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/tigardballoon

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