Maine Skies Will Come Alive Again at This Year’s Balloon Festival

The sky over Lewiston/Auburn this summer is going to become magical for probably one of the best balloon festivals we've have to date.

It's going to be meaningful as the festival will take on a patriotic theme as part of the celebration of America’s 250th birthday, according to the Sun Journal. 

The Lewiston Auburn Balloon Festival is set for August 21-23, set at Simard-Payne Park in Lewiston.

This 3 day event is something we locals have looked forward to year after year. Getting up extra early on the festival weekend to witness the sky filled with tons of hot air balloons, as per the article.

And of course, this year is expected to once again draw huge crowds for not only the hot air balloon launches but also, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.

A Sky Full of Balloons and Patriotism Returns to Lewiston-Auburn

I have had the pleasure of emceeing the balloon festival at the Main Stage and one word that comes to mind when I think about the impact of this festival is family.

The connection we have to each and our community produces the feeling of family. This year will be no different.

We've grown together and will welcome all who want to come and enjoy our twin cities.

Because this year is America's 250th birthday, the organizers wanted to plan something extra special. They will bring us red, white, and blue everything to the festival, blending patriotic vibes with one of Maine's most epic summer traditions. We can't wait to see what's in store.

If you’ve never been, just picture this: dozens of hot air balloons rising over the Androscoggin River at sunrise and sunset, with an electric atmosphere on the ground.

Read More: Few Balloons Took Flight, but Spirits Soared at L/A Balloon Fest 

Singing, dancing, celebrating and  of course, the crowd-favorite, the glowing nighttime “moonglow,” where balloons light up the sky in sync.

The festival has long been a tradition in the twin cities, attracting tens of thousands of people every year and giving us everything from local  artisan markets to live entertainment.

Make sure you visit and celebrate with us all, as we celebrate America in the sky at the 2026 Lewiston/Auburn Balloon Festival!