One Day at the Hudson Hot Air Affair: Your Ultimate Guide to the Hot Air Balloon Festival
- Kari Lynn
- 3 hours ago
- 3 min read
Looking for a family-friendly winter event this weekend? There’s no better place to be than Hudson Hot Air Affair in Hudson, Wisconsin! This annual winter highlight draws crowds from across the Midwest and offers a unique blend of hot air balloon excitement, local culture, and fun community events.
Here’s everything you need to know for planning your weekend in Hudson for the balloon festival.
📅 Event Overview: What, When & Where
The Hudson Hot Air Affair is back for its 37th year from Friday, February 6 through Sunday, February 8, 2026.
Dates: Feb 6–8, 2026
Main Venue: EP Rock Elementary School, Hudson, WI
Theme: “Sky Walkers Return to Rock” — a playful, family-friendly festival concept for all ages.
This winter festival is one of the Midwest’s most anticipated seasonal events, filled with activities throughout downtown Hudson and the balloon launch field.
🎈 Hot Air Balloon Launches
The highlight of the weekend is the hot air balloon launches! Weather permitting, balloons will ascend into the crisp winter sky—an unforgettable visual experience in the heart of Wisconsin.
Balloon Launch Schedule (Tentative)
Saturday, Feb 7 — 7:35 AM: Mass ascension of hot air balloons
Saturday, 3:00 PM: Optional balloon launch or meet-and-greet with pilots
Sunday, Feb 8 — 7:35 AM: Final morning balloon launch
Note: Balloon flights are weather dependent and may be postponed or rescheduled based on conditions.
Even if flights get canceled due to wind or weather, the festival still offers plenty of alternative festivities.
🎈 Don’t Miss These Weekend Highlights
Moon Glow or Field of Fire
One of the most magical experiences at the festival is the Hot Air Balloon Moon Glow, scheduled for Saturday evening (around 6:15 PM). Balloons tethered to the ground are illuminated against the night sky with their burners blazing — a dramatic and photogenic spectacle.
🎈Torchlight Parade
The fun begins Friday evening with a Torchlight Parade through downtown Hudson. Locals and visitors alike line the streets to watch glowing balloon displays, local performers, and community groups kick off the festival weekend.
🎈Marketplace & Local Vendors
Inside and outside the school grounds, you’ll find a festive marketplace featuring:
Local artisans and crafts
Food vendors
Festival souvenirs
This is a great opportunity to support local business and find unique gifts or keepsakes.
🎈Community Activities
Beyond ballooning, the festival offers a variety of fun events such as:
Pancake breakfasts
Smoosh-board competitions
Bean bag tournaments
Prize drop fundraisers benefiting local causes
These activities make the weekend entertaining for families, couples, and groups alike.
🎈Best Places to Eat & Warm Up in Hudson
After spending time outdoors (it is February in Wisconsin!), head into historic downtown Hudson for some delicious eats. Here are a few places locals love:
Aamodt’s Hot Air Balloon Rides – While not a food spot, this balloon operator is part of the local ballooning culture and can point you toward great local dining.
(Replace with actual restaurant names based on your experience or local favorites.)
Local favorites often include cozy cafés, bistros, and classic Midwest comfort food spots—perfect for warming up after watching the balloons take flight.
🎈Tips for Enjoying the Festival
Since this is a winter event:
Dress warmly: Think layers, insulated boots, hats, gloves, and hand warmers.
Plan for early mornings: Morning ascensions are the main highlight.
Check balloon flight updates: Weather changes can affect launches.
The festival is designed as a spectator event, so while you’ll see tons of balloons in action, there are no balloon rides sold during the event itself.
📸 Capture the Magic
Whether you’re watching the balloons rise at sunrise or capturing a glowing scene at the Moon Glow, this festival offers fantastic photo ops. Bring a camera or smartphone and be ready for bright colors against winter blue skies or dramatic evening light.
The Hudson Hot Air Affair is one of the most unique winter experiences in Wisconsin. It combines small-town charm with community spirit, vibrant hot air balloons, family-centered activities, and plenty of outdoor fun. If you’re looking for an unforgettable weekend getaway or a fun family adventure this weekend, bundle up and head to Hudson!
