History:

The Columbus Day Festival's own Hot Air Balloon Regatta is part of the fastest growing festival in Southeast Kansas. 20 balloons from all over the area will decorate the October sky with color and excitement. Beginning with a balloon glow on Friday evening, then followed by three regattas over the weekend (weather permitting), the event has become the Columbus Day Festival's main attraction.

The event begins with a spectacular balloon glow on Friday evening, the first day of the Columbus Day Festival. The light of the powerful propane burners illuminates the envelopes creating a huge display of color. Balloon glows have become one of the most popular spectacles of hot air balloon events everywhere.

Then, on Saturday morning, the first Hare & Hound race between balloons takes off from the Industrial Park. Another race follows later in the day amid the festivities, and the last regatta takes place on Sunday.