A free annual event takes place in Sandy City in the south end of the Salt Lake valley, and those in the know look forward to it with anticipation every year: the Sandy City Annual Hot-Air Balloon Festival and Glow Event. It takes place in a public park with the towering Wasatch mountains as a backdrop, and as the sun comes up over Lone Peak, multitudes of hot-air balloons float into the air and present an incredible spectacle. With two morning launches and an evening celebration at the City Promenade, this is a must-see event!

Two Balloon Launches

August 11 & 12 (Weather Permitting)
Dawn
Storm Mountain Park
1000 East 11400 South, Sandy

Even if you're not an early morning riser, this one is worth it. Bring a blanket to sit on and a thermos of coffee or hot chocolate, and get ready for a unique experience. Not only can you watch as the balloon pilots prepare and inflate their rides with jets of hot flame, you can be a part of the experience. As you walk around and move between the slowly growing balloons, the operators are more than happy to chat, answer questions, and even ask you to assist. Don't forget to take pictures; this is a worthwhile Instagrammable moment.

Glow Festival

August 11
7 pm-11 pm
City Promenade
10000 South Centennial Parkway, Sandy

If you just can't make yourself get up early enough for the launches, fear not - the Glow Festival takes place Saturday night, and there's still plenty of fun to be had. There will be a concert, balloon glow, fun activities, and food trucks, and the evening will finish with a drone show. And remember, it's free admission!

Come down and enjoy the Sandy City Hot-Air Balloon Festival!

It's free, it's fun, it's family friendly, and it's a great way to close out the summer! Get all the details here!