It’s almost time to look to the skies. Jupiter Flights Balloon Festival will soon return to Conner Prairie, and this year’s event is bigger and bolder than ever.
As Indiana’s largest hot air balloon festival, Jupiter Flights brings together more than 45 colorful hot air balloons, thrilling competitions, live entertainment, and family fun across three unforgettable days, Sept. 5 to 7.
From early morning launches to magical evening balloon glows, guests will witness ballooning at its finest, including appearances by two international pilots hailing from England and Belgium.
“Jupiter Flights is a one-of-a-kind festival that lifts spirits and ignites wonder,” Conner Prairie President and CEONorman Burns said. “It’s one of our signature events that brings the community together to celebrate the history of flight brought to life every day at Conner Prairie through our 1859 Balloon Voyage experience!”
Get your tickets
Tickets are on sale now for members only and go on sale to the for the public on Thursday, July 31 with limited capacity. Early purchase is highly recommended.
Ticket prices
- Members: $15
- Access Pass Holders: $10
- Nonmembers: $26
- VIP Experience: $50 (flat rate for members and nonmembers)
VIP guests enjoy exclusive access to the Sunset Lounge, featuring premium views of the Balloon Glow, one drink ticket at a private bar, and a tasting experience from Oliver Winery.
Please note: Morning and evening events are ticketed separately, and morning access now requires admission (see details below).
Start the day with Sky-High Excitement, Sept. 6 & 7
Morning activities begin around 7 a.m., weather permitting, offering a peaceful and photogenic setting as balloons fly over the Conner Prairie grounds and attempt target drops. Guests can bring lawn chairs, relax, and enjoy a quieter festival atmosphere.
Morning admission
- $5 for Members
- $10 for Nonmembers (separate from evening ticket)
Morning activities include:
- Barrel train rides
- Corn mazes
- Parachute games
- Ag Adventures playground
- Tubing hill
- 1859 Balloon Voyage Exhibit (no rides)
- Make & take crafts (included with ticket)
Evenings that glow, Sept. 5 & 6
As the sun sets, Jupiter Flights transforms into a glowing celebration of light, music, and community. The Balloon Glow and evening competitions (weather permitting) are must-see spectacles, paired with live entertainment, performances, and plenty of hands-on activities for kids and families.
Evening fun includes:
- Balloon Glow & Competition Flights
- Pilot Meet and Greet
- 1859 Balloon Voyage Rides (weather permitting)
- Live Music from JBJ Collective at the Grand Stage
- En Pointe Ballet performance on the Symphony Stage
- Theater performance of To Soar Above in Featherston Barn
- RC Aviation Demos
- Potato Sack Slide, Orbitron Ride, Lawn Games
- Face Painting, Barrel Train Rides, Tubing Hill
- Live DJ in the Midway
- Corn Mazes (long & short)
- Flight-themed games and parachute play
- Ag Adventures Playground
Be part of the festival from your own yard
Conner Prairie invites neighbors within 10 miles to participate in the White Sheet Program by placing a white sheet in their yard by 7 a.m. each morning of the festival. This let’s balloon pilots know it’s safe to land, a unique way for nearby residents to join the experience without leaving home. A sign on your door that says “Balloons Welcome” works, too.
Know before you go: weather & alerts
Balloon launches are dependent on weather – especially wind and visibility. For real-time updates, check:
- Conner Prairie’s Facebook and Instagram at @connerprairie
- Text alerts for registered guests
- Flag signals onsite for live status
Don’t miss the most colorful event of the year. For tickets, event schedules, FAQs, and updates, visit connerprairie.org. Follow along on social media for insider tips, behind-the-scenes peeks, and weather alerts at @connerprairie.