Flying Circus Hot Air Balloon Festival Near NoVANew Blog Post
Soar into Spectacle: The Flying Circus Hot Air Balloon Festival Near NoVA
If you’re craving a weekend escape full of vibrant skies, soaring dreams, and heart-stirring views — look no further! On September 20 and 21, the skies over Fauquier County will illuminate with one of the region’s most enchanting events: the Flying Circus Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival, just off Route 17 in Bealeton, Virginia.
Why This Festival Should Be on Your Calendar
Early gates, cooler skies: The festival gates swing open at 6 a.m., letting you beat the rush and catch the magic of balloon inflations at dawn.
Balloon flights in dual delight: Expect two balloon launch windows — 7 to 9 a.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. — perfect for experiencing the gentle thrill of tethered and aerial escapes.
First come, first soared: Flights are available on a walk-up basis only — no reservations, so arrive early if you're hoping to float.
Flight Options to Fit Your Style
Type of AdventureDetailsTethered Balloon RideA few minutes aloft on a anchored balloon — $20 for adults, $10 for kids under 12. Cash only!Free-Flight Balloon ExperienceA genuine, untethered flight for roughly $300 per person. A serious bucket-list move!
More Than Just Balloons
This festival is a triple treat:
Biplane views to complement balloon beauty:
$135 for a standard biplane ride (single passenger)
$200 for a single-passenger aerobatic thrill
$200 for two sharing a standard flight
High-flying airshows: Watch acrobatic stunts and barnstorming flair at 1:30 p.m. on both days.
Picnic with a view: Grab a bite from burger stands to ice cream, and enjoy it under shaded pavilions that overlook the action-packed field.
Weekly shows: Even if you can’t make the festival weekend, Flying Circus hosts airshows every Sunday from May through October, from 2:30 to 4 p.m.
Tips for a Smooth and Spectacular Visit
Arrive early — lines can back up fast, and the early birds get the best vantage points and flight opportunities.
Bring cash — all balloon rides and biplane flights are cash-only.
Dress for variable weather — early mornings can carry a crisp bite and evenings may cool quickly.
Bring a blanket or foldable chair — perfect for lounging under the shaded areas with food and flyers rising above.
Check the skies — all flights are weather-dependent, so keep an eye on updates if the forecast changes.
Closing Thoughts
This is more than a festival — it's a weekend out of the everyday, where fiery balloons drift gracefully across a Shenandoah backdrop, the roar of vintage biplanes fills the air, and a picnic under a sky full of color becomes unforgettable. Whether you're chasing a dream, planning a romance-sparked proposal, capturing Instagram gold, or simply treating family to something awe-inspiring — this is your moment. Come early, let go, and soar.
