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Sweetheart Balloon Rally
August 3 - August 4
$10
Sweetheart Balloon Rally: Your Complete Guide
Hey there, balloon lovers! Get ready for the Sweetheart Balloon Rally, Loveland’s sky-high party! Every August, our town turns into a rainbow in the clouds. It’s like a big birthday cake for the “Sweetheart City,” but instead of candles, we’ve got hot air balloons! Did you know the first hot air balloon flew in 1783? That’s older than sliced bread! Now, we’re keeping that spirit alive right here in Colorado. Whether you’re a balloon buff or just looking for some family fun, this guide will help you float through the festival like a pro
History of Sweetheart Balloon Rally
The Sweetheart Balloon Rally has been brightening Loveland’s skies since the 1980s. It took a break for a while but came back strong in 2007 to celebrate Loveland as the “Sweetheart City.” Over the years, it’s grown from a small gathering to a big, colorful festival that brings smiles to faces young and old.
What’s Special
- 20 hot air balloons painting the sky
- Nighttime balloon glow that lights up the darkness
- Vintage Airstream trailers on display
- Pancake breakfast to start your day right
- 4-mile race for the sporty folks
- Cute costume contest for kids
Sweetheart Balloon Rally 2024 Schedule:
Saturday, August 3rd:
- 6 AM: Balloon liftoff
- 1 PM – 3 PM: Airstream trailer show
- 7:45 PM: Balloon glow
Sunday, August 4th:
- 6 AM: Balloon liftoff
- Morning: Pancake breakfast
- All day: 4-mile race and costume contest
- Tethered balloon rides available
Where It’s Happening: Sweetheart Balloon Rally Venue
The Ranch in Loveland, Colorado, during the Larimer County Fair & Rodeo
Tickets:
Good news! It’s free to attend. If you want a tethered balloon ride on Sunday, that’s $200 per hour.
Who’s Running the Show:
The City of Loveland and local community groups put this event together.
Find Them Online: Website: visitloveland.com/sweetheartfestival For updates, check the City of Loveland’s social media accounts
Tips for First-Timers:
- Rise and shine! The early morning balloon liftoffs are worth the early wake-up call.
- Bring a camera to capture the colorful balloons against the sky.
- Dress in layers. Mornings can be chilly, but it warms up fast.
- Pack a picnic blanket for the balloon glow.
- Don’t forget sunscreen and hats for daytime activities.
Getting There: From Denver: Take I-25 North and exit at US-34 East towards Loveland. Follow signs to The Ranch. From Fort Collins: Take I-25 South to Loveland. Exit at US-34 East and follow signs to The Ranch.
Parking: There’s parking at The Ranch, but get there early for the best spots, especially for popular events like the balloon glow.
Nearby Fun:
- Loveland Museum: Learn about local history and art
- Benson Sculpture Garden: Walk among 150+ sculptures
- Devil’s Backbone Open Space: Great for a hike with a view
- Downtown Loveland: Grab a bite or shop local
Bonus Adventure for Balloon Enthusiasts!
Hey balloon buddies! Want to keep your head in the clouds even after the Sweetheart Balloon Rally? We’ve got just the thing for you!
While you’re in Colorado, why not stretch your legs on a guided hiking tour in the Rocky Mountains? It’s like adding sprinkles to your ice cream cone – makes a good thing even better!
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- 4-hour tour with a local guide (they know all the cool spots!)
- Small groups (max 7 people) so you won’t feel like a sardine in a can
- Snacks and water included (because hiking makes you hungry!)
- Winter gear available (in case Jack Frost decides to visit)
- Easy pickup in Denver (no need to be a mountain goat to get there)
Fun fact: Did you know the Rocky Mountains are about 80 million years old? That’s older than your grandma’s grandma’s grandma!
As Mark Twain said, “Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” So why not give it a go?
Click here to check out this mountain adventure: Guided Hiking Tour in Colorado
It’s only $69.99, which is less than the cost of a fancy dinner. But the memories? Priceless!
Don’t let this chance float away like a runaway balloon. Book now and make your Sweetheart Balloon Rally trip even more awesome!
Rules to Remember for Sweetheart Balloon Rally:
- No smoking near the balloons (they use propane!)
- Keep pets on leashes
- Don’t touch the balloons without permission
- Listen to the balloon crews for safety instructions
Fun Fact: Hot air balloons are the oldest successful human-carrying flight technology, dating back to 1783!
Conclusion
As the old saying goes, “The sky’s the limit!” At the Sweetheart Balloon Rally, that’s literally true. From the crack of dawn liftoffs to the magical nighttime glow, this festival is a feast for the eyes and the heart. It’s not just about watching balloons; it’s about making memories that’ll stick with you like gum on a shoe (but in a good way!). So mark your calendars, pack your picnic baskets, and get ready to look up in wonder. Who knows? Maybe next year you’ll be the one waving from a balloon basket!
If you have missed this or not in range, check our our exclusive category of Balloon Festival for your nearest one.