by The 46th Annual Ravenna Balloon A-Fair 2025 is set to take place from Thursday, September 25 through Sunday, September 28, 2025, in Downtown Ravenna and the Portage County Fairgrounds, Atwater, Ohio. This popular yearly event combines hot air balloons, live music, family activities, delicious food, and entertainment, creating a lively celebration of community and autumn traditions.
Event Dates and Schedule
The festival runs over four days, offering morning, afternoon, and evening events for visitors of all ages. Each day features unique activities including parades, balloon displays, and live performances.
- Thursday, September 25: 6:30 PM – Children’s Parade (registration begins at 5:30 PM)
- Friday, September 26: 5:30 PM – Fairgrounds gates open
- Saturday, September 27: 9:00 AM – Grand Parade downtown; 3:00 PM – Fairgrounds gates open
- Sunday, September 28: 11:00 AM – Fairgrounds gates open
Venue of the Ravenna Balloon A-Fair
The festival takes place across two main locations: downtown Ravenna for parades and community activities, and the Portage County Fairgrounds for rides, balloon launches, and large-scale entertainment.
- Address: 4215 Fairground Rd., Atwater, OH 44201
- Downtown Ravenna: Parade and festival activities
- Fairgrounds: Hot air balloons, rides, music, and family fun
Admission and Tickets
The festival is family-friendly and affordable, with some activities and rides requiring separate tickets.
- Admission: $5 per person, per day
- Children 12 and under: Free with a paying adult
- Parking: $5 per vehicle
Thursday – Children’s Parade
Thursday evening begins the festival with the Children’s Parade in downtown Ravenna, offering a fun start for families and community members.
- 6:30 PM: Children’s Parade (registration at 5:30 PM)
Friday – Hot Air Balloon Glow
Friday features the Hot Air Balloon Glow, live music, and activities at the Portage County Fairgrounds.
- Live Music: Embers of Floyd: Pink Floyd Tribute Band
- Rides & Games: Inflatables, mechanical bull, pony rides, trackless train, putt-putt golf
- Other Activities: Axe throwing, petting zoo, tethered balloon rides, helicopter rides
- Food & Drinks: Variety of festival food vendors, Beer & Wine Garden
Saturday – Grand Parade and Balloon Launch
Saturday offers a full day of events starting with the Grand Parade downtown and continuing with hot air balloons and live music at the fairgrounds.
- 9:00 AM: Grand Parade downtown Ravenna
- 3:00 PM: Gates open at Portage County Fairgrounds
- Live Music: Invincible: Pat Benatar Tribute Band, Escape – The Journey Tribute Band
- Hot Air Balloon Launch: 5:30 PM (weather permitting), followed by static displays
- Other Attractions: Jeep show with car crush, inflatables, craft vendors, fireworks, pony rides, mechanical bull, axe throwing, putt-putt golf, trackless train rides, food vendors
Sunday – Balloon Launch and Entertainment
Sunday concludes the festival with more hot air balloons, music, and family fun.
- 11:00 AM: Gates open at Portage County Fairgrounds
- Live Music: Out of Eden: Eagles Tribute Band
- Hot Air Balloon Launch: 5:30 PM (weather permitting), followed by static displays
- Activities: Car show, inflatables, craft vendors, helicopter rides, pony rides, mechanical bull, axe throwing, putt-putt golf, trackless train rides, and food vendors
Why Attend Ravenna Balloon A-Fair 2025?
This festival is a highlight of Ohio’s fall calendar, offering a mix of hot air balloons, parades, rides, live music, and community activities. It’s ideal for visitors seeking fun for all ages.
- See hot air balloons up close and during evening glows
- Enjoy live music, parades, and fireworks
- Family-friendly rides and activities
- Variety of food, crafts, and local vendors
Additional Facilities
The festival ensures visitor comfort and safety with convenient amenities.
- Restrooms and handwashing stations
- Parking and wheelchair/stroller accessibility
- Security and event staff
- First aid and emergency assistance
Plan Your Visit
Plan to attend the 46th Annual Ravenna Balloon A-Fair from September 25–28, 2025. With balloons, live music, rides, food, and family-friendly entertainment, this festival is a perfect autumn outing for families and visitors.
