Flint Hills Balloon Festival 2025: Hot Air Balloons, Glow Nights, and Family Fun in Manhattan, KS
If you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind experience in Manhattan, KS that lifts your spirits (quite literally), then the Flint Hills Balloon Festival is your ticket to sky-high memories. Here’s everything you need to know. First, and foremost, this event is weather-dependent, so make sure to follow the event on their Facebook page! I will be heading out bright and early Friday morning to catch the sunrise and the balloons taking off!
🎈 What is the Flint Hills Balloon Festival in Manhattan, KS?
The Flint Hills Balloon Festival is a hot-air-balloon event in Manhattan, Kansas. This event celebrates the beauty of the Flint Hills, the majesty of hot air balloons, and the sense of community. The balloons will take off at 7 am on Friday and Saturday at Northeast Community Park, with hopefully 8+ balloons taking flight on both mornings. Then, on Friday and Saturday evening, the event will move to Anneberg Park for the 6:00 PM – Drive-Thru Balloon Glow. They are hoping for 20+ balloons to take flight for the drive-through experience!
📅 When to Arrive & How to Plan Your Day
Arrive early and plan your timing to maximize the spectacle and avoid the crowds.
- Morning Balloon Flights
The 2025 schedule shows: Friday at 7:00 AM (8+ balloons) and Saturday at 7:00 AM (25+ balloons) at Northeast Community Park in Manhattan. They have suggested that you arrive at least 30–45 minutes before take-off so you can get a good viewing spot, settle in, and prepare for the launch. - Evening Balloon Glow
Later in the day (6:00 PM) at Anneberg Park (also called Frank Anneberg Park), you’ll find the “drive-thru balloon glow” — 20+ hot air balloons inflated.
Tip: For the glow, aim to arrive at dusk, stay in your car or park nearby, and enjoy the illuminated spectacle—ideal if you’re bringing little ones or prefer something more relaxed. - Which day to pick?
If you can only attend one day, Saturday morning is the strongest bet for the biggest balloon count (25+ according to the site) and full festival energy. Friday gives a great preview with fewer balloons and less crowd.
🎒 What to Bring — Festival-Ready Checklist
Planning ahead means you’ll relax, enjoy, and not miss a moment. Here are my favorites for a fun, comfortable festival day:
- Layered clothing & a light jacket
Early morning in November (when this festival takes place) can be crisp in Manhattan—plan for cool temps before sunrise, warming as the day goes on. - Hat + sunglasses
For lower-angle morning light and possible glare when the balloons inflate. - Camera or smartphone + tripod (optional)
You’ll want to capture those balloons against the Flint Hills skyline. Charging cable/back-up battery recommended. - Blanket or portable chair
If you plan to sit on the grass, bring something comfortable—you’ll thank yourself. - Reusable water bottle + snacks
Stay hydrated! Even in the fall, the air can be dry. Bring some easy snacks in case lines are long. - Cash and cards
Local vendors may sell food, festival t-shirts, or souvenirs. Having both payment options is smart. - Binoculars (optional but fun!)
For ballooning details high above, and a fun way to spot shapes, patterns, and colors as they hover. - Bug spray + sunscreen
Even November may yield some midday sun. And if you arrive early, you may dodge some leftover bugs from warmer days. - Comfortable footwear
You may walk on grass, park terrain, or uneven ground—shoes that are comfy and steady will help. - Trash-bag or tote
Keep your space clean and help support the community ethos of the festival.
📍 Where & How to Get There
- Location: The morning flights are located at Northeast Community Park, which is located at 680 Knox Lane, Manhattan, KS 66502. The evening glow at Anneberg Park is located at 3801 Anderson Ave, Manhattan, KS 66503.
- Weather & contingency: Balloon flights are weather permitting. The festival clearly notes this. Flint Hills Balloon Festival If high winds or rain intervene, they may cancel or delay. Always check the festival's social media (Facebook/Instagram) the morning of for updates.
🌟 Why This Festival Is a Must-Visit
- It combines the natural beauty of the Flint Hills region with a vibrant community event—perfect for locals and visitors alike.
- It gives a unique twist on “things to do in Manhattan, KS,” especially during the fall when the scenery is crisp and clear.
- It supports local nonprofits and tourism, so your visit plays a part in the local economy and our community.
- The “balloon glow” evening gives an experience that many festivals don’t, very photo-worthy and family-friendly. I mean, what a cool Christmas card photo op!
I can't wait to see all the photos from the event!
For readers of The Little Apple Life, now Purple Iris Everywhere, this weekend brings out everything we love—community, place, photo ops, and local love. Whether you’re planning a date-morning out, a family adventure, or a solo photography mission, block off the morning of Saturday (and if possible, Friday evening) for the best experience of the Flint Hills Balloon Festival.
Bring layers, bring snacks, bring your curiosity—and most importantly, bring your heart ready to launch alongside those hot-air beauties.
Let the skies over Manhattan, KS, inspire you, and let the glow of those balloons remind you how magical our little region truly is.
See you there! And if you snap any great pics, tag @PurpleIrisEverywhere—I’d love to share your story from the sky!
Happy flying, friends.
