SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER, La — The Delta Utilities Red River Balloon Rally will return to Louisiana Downs Casino & Racetrack on July 10-11, celebrating its 10th anniversary with hot air balloons, live entertainment, fireworks and community events in Shreveport-Bossier.
Hosted by the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission in partnership with Visit Shreveport-Bossier, the annual event has grown into one of North Louisiana’s signature summer attractions since its launch in 2016. The rally combines the Louisiana State Ballooning Championship with family-oriented entertainment designed to attract residents and visitors from across the region.
This year’s event will feature balloon glows, tethered balloon rides, fireworks and an anniversary Xfinity drone show showcasing icons inspired by North Louisiana.
Gates will be open from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday. General admission is $10 for guests ages 6 and older, while children 5 and younger will be admitted free. Tickets will be sold only at the gate.
Entertainment will include live music on the SWEPCO Stage, a free children’s zone sponsored by Cosse and Silmon Orthodontics, vendors from the Bossier City Farmers Market, free parking and complimentary pedicab transportation to and from the entrance. Tethered balloon rides will be available for $25 per person on a cash-only basis.
“We’re proud to once again support the Red River Balloon Rally as title sponsor,” said Sam Walters, director of Delta Utilities. “Events like this bring families and neighbors together and showcase the unique spirit of Louisiana. At Delta Utilities, our commitment extends beyond reliable natural gas service. We invest in the communities we serve and initiatives that help them thrive.”
Additional community activities will include mini balloon displays and specialty-shaped balloons at sponsor locations on the mornings of July 10 and 11. Military families will also be invited to a balloon glow at Barksdale Air Force Base on July 9, an event open exclusively to Department of Defense cardholders and their families.
Organizers will also hold a balloon crew training session at 1 p.m. on July 10 at the Holiday Inn Express by the Racetrack for community members interested in volunteering.
“Events like the Delta Utilities Red River Balloon Rally are often a visitor’s first introduction to Shreveport-Bossier,” said Stacy Brown, president and CEO of Visit Shreveport-Bossier. “They create memorable experiences for families while generating meaningful economic impact for our hotels, restaurants, attractions and local businesses.”
The Louisiana State Ballooning Championship will feature 25 balloon pilots competing to drop bean bags onto designated targets during flights scheduled from 6:30 a.m. to 8 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, weather permitting. The pilot earning the highest point total across both competition flights will be named the Louisiana State Ballooning Champion.