by The 2026 Columbus Day Festival and Hot Air Balloon Regatta is set to take place in Columbus, Kansas, from October 9-11, 2026. This three-day community celebration will bring together visitors for a packed schedule of hot air balloon events, live entertainment, contests, shows, races, food, arts and crafts, and activities for all ages.
Event Date
The Columbus Day Festival and Hot Air Balloon Regatta will be held on:
October 9-11, 2026
Event Location
The festival will be hosted at Downtown Square, located at:
Kansas Street
Columbus, KS 66725
Event Highlights
Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of activities and entertainment throughout the three-day festival, including:
- Pancake breakfast
- Scarecrow contest
- Quilt show
- Hot air balloon regatta
- Hot air balloon glow
- 5K run/walk
- Festival parade
- Demonstrations and wheat threshing
- Car and motorcycle show
- Antique tractor and equipment show
- Golf tournament
- Live bands
- Arts and craft fair
- Food and drinks
- Entertainment for all ages
The hot air balloon regatta and balloon glow are among the featured attractions, giving visitors an opportunity to experience the colorful spectacle as part of the weekend festivities.
Family-Friendly Festival Activities
The Columbus Day Festival offers activities for a wide range of interests. Families can enjoy the parade and entertainment, while automobile and agricultural enthusiasts can explore the car and motorcycle show and antique tractor and equipment show.
The arts and craft fair will also give visitors an opportunity to browse handmade creations, while live bands and food vendors add to the festival atmosphere.
Festival Hours
The event will be open from:
9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. each day
Visitors may want to plan their schedules around the individual activities and performances taking place throughout the festival.
Important Information
Event schedules and details may change due to weather, cancellations, postponements, or other unforeseen circumstances. Visitors are encouraged to contact the event organizers before traveling to confirm the latest information.
Please note that event listing websites do not organize the festival or handle vendor registrations.
Final Thoughts
The Columbus Day Festival and Hot Air Balloon Regatta 2026 offers a full weekend of community entertainment in Columbus, Kansas. From the hot air balloon regatta and glow to the parade, live music, craft fair, classic vehicles, agricultural displays, and family activities, the festival provides plenty of ways for visitors to enjoy the October weekend.
Are you planning to attend the Columbus Day Festival and Hot Air Balloon Regatta? Let us know which activity you’re most excited to see in the comments!
