Salina City is preparing to welcome visitors from across the region for the 18th Annual Eyes to the Sky Balloon Festival, set to take place June 20–22. With 24 hot air balloons scheduled to participate and a weekend full of entertainment, food, and family-friendly fun, this year’s festival promises to be unforgettable.
“We have 24 hot air balloons coming this year under the direction of a new balloonmeister,” said Carol Lowman, Festival President. “In addition to our iconic morning launches, our committee has planned a weekend full of events, concerts, and delicious food. We invite everyone to make plans now to spend the weekend in Salina.”
This year’s balloonmeister, Thayne Peterson, is no stranger to the festival, having flown in Salina 15 times. A professional pilot who entered the world of ballooning thanks to a colleague, Peterson says he’s drawn back each year by the people and the opportunity to dip his balloon in Redmond Lake—a favorite tradition among the pilots and a thrill for passengers who don’t mind getting a little wet.
Balloon launches will take place Friday and Saturday mornings at 6:00 a.m. from the North Sevier Middle School lawn (135 N. 100 W., Salina). Breakfast will be sold both mornings, by American Legion Post 36 and BSA Troop 2020.
The festivities continue Friday evening with a Main Street street festival, including the return of the popular Cornhole Tournament sponsored by Krissy and Bronson Hallows, owners of Muddy Pawz Salon. Registration is now open via the Scoreholio App.
Friday night also features a free concert by The Beetdiggers, a crowd-favorite Rockabilly band, followed by a brand new event: a Neon Dance Party with DJ Pink Flamingo.
“The dance party is something I’m especially excited about,” said Lowman. “We’ll have everything from old-school rock to country, techno, and dance mixes—plus pink flamingos and plenty of glow gear. It’s wholesome fun that’s perfect for all ages.”
Attendees will enjoy free neon LED and glow sticks, neon face painting by the NSHS drill team, and late-night shopping along Main Street with festival pricing from local businesses.
On Saturday morning, Main Street will come alive with local entertainment, chalk art, free inflatables, and a bouncy obstacle course. The FMX stunt show, featuring Moto with a Message, will be performed twice that day.
Festivalgoers can also explore craft and food vendors throughout the weekend, with a mix of returning favorites and exciting new options.
Saturday evening’s concert will feature Nashville Recording Artist Carver Louis, sponsored by State Bank of Southern Utah. The 23-year-old Tooele native, now based in Nashville, has opened for Ella Langley and wrote “Last Call Cowboy,” featured on CMT for Karissa Ella.
“Carver has performed in Salina before, and people just love his music,” said Lowman. “We’re thrilled to welcome him back for another great show.”
The festival concludes with the spectacular Balloon Glow on Main Street, a tradition beloved by attendees of all ages.
All events are weather permitting. For more information, visit www.eyestotheskyballoonfestival.com or contact Carol Lowman at 435-201-4997.
