It takes more than hot air to pull off Plano’s biggest sky-high party. The H-E-B | Central Market Plano Balloon Festival is back Sept. 18–21, 2025, at Oak Point Park, and organizers are looking for volunteers to help make it happen. Think of it as your backstage pass to one of North Texas’ most dazzling traditions.
Join The Crew
Festival volunteers play a crucial role each year, from collaborating with balloon pilots to assisting with children’s activities. Opportunities include:
- Volunteer Chase Crew: Assist special-shape balloon pilots with inflation, displays and glows. Volunteers must be 18 or older and able to lift 30–40 pounds.
- National Honor Society Volunteers: Greet families at admission gates, distribute child ID bands or help in the Kids Korner arts and crafts tent.
- General Volunteers: Support crowd control, vendor operations and other festival logistics.
All volunteers receive a free festival T-shirt. Registration is open now at planoballoonfest.org.
Festival Highlights
The 46th annual festival will once again fill the sky with color. Weather permitting, balloons are scheduled to launch or glow Thursday evening, Friday evening, Saturday morning and evening, and Sunday morning. Nighttime balloon glows, when balloons light up the park like lanterns, are a fan favorite.
Beyond the balloons, the lineup features live music from the Plano Symphony Orchestra, cover bands such as Midtown 10, and the Plano Community Band. Evening shows close with fireworks and skydiving demonstrations from the RE/MAX team.
Families can explore the Central Market Kids Fun Zone, featuring inflatables and art tents, while shoppers browse handmade goods from over 35 vendors. Food trucks and local eateries will serve everything from turkey legs to funnel cakes.
For those seeking extra thrills, tethered balloon rides will be offered on a first-come, cash-only basis. The ride lifts guests 20–30 feet above the ground and is available Thursday through Sunday, weather permitting.
Tickets And Access
Tickets are on sale now. Pricing is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 3–12, $5 for seniors 65 and older and free for children under 36 inches. Military members, veterans and first responders with valid ID also receive free admission at the gate.
Parking can be purchased in advance, and local hotels are offering weekend packages that include festival tickets.
A Plano Tradition Since 1979
The Plano Balloon Festival has been part of the city’s cultural fabric for nearly five decades. Organizers say it not only celebrates ballooning but also supports local nonprofits, who assist with operations and benefit from fundraising opportunities.
To learn more about the festival and volunteer opportunities, click here.
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