There’s nothing quite like a colorful hot air balloon to ignite the imagination and get your mind soaring among the clouds. There are several air balloon festivals across Nebraska, and this one in the panhandle has been a local favorite for years.

The Old West Balloon Fest takes place in the Scottsbluff-Gering-Mitchell area. People come from near and far to witness the launch of these whimsical, colorful balloons.
Facebook/Old West Balloon Fest
In 2017, 20 balloons were launched at the event. The 2018 festival is expected to feature more than 30 hot air balloons. There will be old favorites and new balloons, all of which will delight kids and adults alike.
Facebook/Old West Balloon Fest
Spectators love the balloon glow, where the balloons are lit up at dusk but don't take off. It's the perfect photo opportunity, and it gives everyone the chance to see these huge vessels up close on the ground.
Facebook/Old West Balloon Fest

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At the sunrise launch, the balloons go up one by one, ascending into the sky with effortless grace. There's something undeniably charming about these colorful beauties.
Facebook/Old West Balloon Fest
But there's a whole lot more to the Old West Balloon Fest than just the balloons. There's a musical guest every year and food vendors offer lots of tasty treats. You can also look forward to a kids' bounce house, performances by local dance groups, and lots of other fun activities.
Facebook/Old West Balloon Fest
Recently, the Old West Balloon Fest was chosen to host the National Hot Air Balloon Championship. The championship event will begin with the 2019 festival.
Facebook/Old West Balloon Fest

The 2018 Old West Balloon Fest is scheduled for August 17-18 at Mitchell Air Field, just south of Mitchell at the intersection of Mitchell South Road and Hawk Road. Find out more and keep up on other news on the festival’s Facebook page.

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