◉ PHOTOS: Balloon festival in High River takes flight

The 2026 Heritage Inn International Balloon Festival kicked off on Wednesday, Sept. 23. in High River.

However, due to cancellations, the first official flight took place on Thursday.

Running from Sept. 23 to the 27, the festival is for all ages and sees dozens of balloons take flight.

Thursday’s morning flight saw 19 balloons take to the sky.

The first balloon to take flight during the event is titled the “Hare,” the designated lead balloon.

Once deep in the flight, the Hare will drop a marker, which the other balloons (called the hounds) try to find and land closest to.

Festival attendees are encouraged to “chase” the balloons and try to find the marker to watch them land.

Balloon pilot Matthew Ellard, who flies “Old Blue,” hopes people should come and watch them fly.

“It’s a unique thing. You know, it doesn’t happen every day,” said Ellard.

He also shared his favourite part of being a Balloon Pilot.

“I love the community and having folks like this come out, and it’s just a lot of fun,” said Ellard.

The rest of the festival is today, Friday the 25th, at 7:30 a.m.

After the 7:30 a.m. flight, there will be a glow festival from five to nine, with food vendors, a DJ, and dancers.

At sunset, the balloons will inflate, and attendees will have a chance to get up close and personal with the hot air balloons.

Saturday, Sept. 26th, at 7:30 a.m. and 5:15 p.m.

Sunday will be the festival’s final day and will start at 7:30 a.m.

All events are free to attend, and more information is available on the event website.

Flights and times are subject to change due to weather conditions.