Mass Ascension
August 15, 16 & 17, 2025
Gates open at 5:30, Launch at 6:15 a.m.
And so it starts!
Mass Ascension
August 15, 16 & 17, 2025
Gates open at 5:30 a.m., Launch at 6:15 a.m.
This is the main event! Located at the Mitchell Airfield just south of Mitchell, Nebraska. Enjoy the breathtaking wonder of 50 hot air balloons taking off all at once! You can also enjoy food trucks and other vendors, so come and join us!
As the weather plays a critical role in hot air balloons, be sure to have a look at the weather forecast before heading out to see the balloons.
Event Passes
One festival event pass is good for an entire carload and gains entry to all events throughout the full festival weekend. To inquire about pricing for tour buses please email us at theoldwestballoonfest@gmail.
There are 3 ways to purchase event passes:
- Buying Online
- We will begin mailing passes on June 1 and mail them through August 1, 2025
- In-Person sales will take place at our sponsor banks on July 1, 2025. For a complete list of our bank sponsors and locations, please visit our website.
- You may purchase passes at the gate, please plan on bringing cash.
Event Passes are NON-REFUNDABLE.
Vendors
Outstanding food and merchandise vendors will attend both morning ascensions and both night glows. Plan to eat and drink from our local favorite restaurants, food trucks, and bars. No alcohol will be available at the WNCC night glow; but plan on drinking your favorite craft beer, wine, mimosas and bloody marys at both the morning launches and the night glow at the Mitchell Air Field. Due to our liquor license, no outside alcohol allowed.
Parking
Parking for the night glow at WNCC will be available in the lots around the college. Parking passes are required to park in campus parking lots. Neighborhood parking is free. Please do not block driveways and routes entering the college. Handicapped parking will be available, there will be no in-car viewing at the college.
Public Facilities
Public restrooms in the form of Port-a-Johns will be available including handicapped facilities. Restrooms will be sanitized each day and hand sanitizer stations will be located throughout the venue.