DANVILLE — Balloons Over Vermilion returns for the 10th time in a different location.
The 2026 festival will take place at Kennekuk County Park on June 5 and 6.
“We are very excited to celebrate a decade of delighted smiles as colorful hot air balloons fill the sky and light the night with dazzling balloon glows,” shared Carly Goodwin, festival co-chair. “Shifting to June gives our neighbors, friends, and visitors another opportunity for extended family fun throughout the summer.”
Goodwin said there are more details coming soon, as organizers prepare for the 2026 event.
And, not only will this year mark a decade of the Balloons Over Vermilion Festival, it marks 25 years of hot air balloons taking off in Vermilion County.
And the county is celebrating its 200th anniversary.
“There is a lot to celebrate, and we are looking forward to the culmination of these celebrations this summer at one of the county’s most beautiful and historic locations — Kennekuk County Park,” Goodwin said.
Previously, the festival was held at the Vermilion Regional Airport.
“The Vermilion Regional Airport has been a wonderful and gracious partner but hosting a large-scale festival at an active airport limits some logistical and attraction opportunities,” explained Dean Carlton, host pilot and co-chair.
The Director of the Vermilion County Conservation District, Jamie Pasquale, is excited for the change of scenery.
“We are thrilled to welcome Balloons Over Vermilion to Kennekuk County Park for 2026 and beyond,” Pasquale said. “The timing is perfect for thousands of guests to explore Vermilion County’s natural beauty and the Bunker Hill Historic Village — combined with community entertainment at its finest.”
The celebration in June is set to showcase more than 30 hot air balloons in many shapes and sizes. There will also be tethered balloon rides, a kids zone, and a beer tent with live entertainment, as well as many food vendors.
Event organizers say to follow their Facebook and Instagram page(s): Balloons Over Vermilion to stay in the know about the upcoming summer festival. There is also information on their website: BalloonsOverVermilion.com.
“We have just began to explore additional programming for the 2026 event and look forward to sharing more details soon,” Goodwin added.