Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch
About this event
The Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch is a cultural festival in Rapid City, South Dakota, at Stratobowl Rim Trail. The 2026 event takes place Sep 11–13, 2026. A breathtaking September weekend celebrating the Stratobowl's role as the birthplace of the Space Age, where record-breaking stratosphere balloon flights launched in 1934 and 1935. Ten to twelve seasoned balloonists gather at sunrise to lift gracefully out of the pine-walled canyon before spectators along the Stratobowl Rim Trail.
Annual, mid-September weekend
Location & directions
Stratobowl Rim Trail, Rapid City, SD 57702
Frequently asked questions
When is Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch 2026?
Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch takes place Sep 11–13, 2026 in Rapid City, South Dakota. Annual, mid-September weekend
Where is Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch held?
Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch is held in Rapid City, South Dakota, at Stratobowl Rim Trail, Rapid City, SD 57702.
What is Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch?
A breathtaking September weekend celebrating the Stratobowl's role as the birthplace of the Space Age, where record-breaking stratosphere balloon flights launched in 1934 and 1935.
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