2026 Events
Hot Air Balloons, Drones & Other Fun
Mark Your Calendar For Some Flying Fun
Flying Festivals of Warren County proudly presents 4 ballooning/aviation events in 2026.
The events kick off at Area 57, on April 25, at Warren Technical School, off Route 57. Hence the name, Area 57. Expect to see some flying objects, that make up a fleet of drones that are part of the expansive Unmanned Systems program at the College.
Mark your calendar for June 6 & 7, 2026, for the first of 3 balloon festivals in Warren County, New Jersey. Hot Air Balloon, Art & Crafts, is held at the College in Washington. This festival give artists and crafters an opportunity to sell the wares they have been making over the winter! If you are a crafter or artist we are always looking for more vendors.
Join us in the Chalk Art Contest. Check out details here.
Mid summer the locals look forward to the Warren County Farmers' Fair, featuring the Hot Air Balloon Festival. An 8 day event that is two events in one, with one low admission price. July 25 - August 1, 2026
September 19 & 20, 2026, the College hosts our final event - Hot Air Balloons, Fun & Games Festival. If you are a non profit looking to provide an activity while fundraising please fill our our application here and indicate non profit status and activitiy providing to be considered for free space.
Please note, prior to purchasing tickets, or planning your visit. Pets are not allowed, nor is alcohol. We make significant investment to provide a pleasant experience for you and your family, like entertainers and music in addition to the hot air balloons. But we cannot control the weather and should activities be cancelled be aware we cannot refund your ticket purchase.
The Why
1
Warren Community College support
The events hosted at the College help bring awareness to the available programs offered. In particular, the College's Phillipsburg location is home to one of the most state of the art Drone pilot training programs, housed at the new Dr. Joseph Warren Robotics Research Center.
2
Fred Grotenhuis Scholarships
In 2001 Fred Grotenhuis had a vision to reinvigorate and incorporate a hot air balloon festival into the local county Fair. The year Covid hit, the balloon festival was moved temporarily to the College, as the Fair was unable to be held. The balloon festival has since turned in to multiple events at both locations. Each is used to generate funds for local scholarships.
3
Fred T. Grotenhuis Veterans Community Center project
Fred Grotenhuis, a life long resident of Harmony Township, Warren County, was a local hero who served his country as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam. The balloon festivals are also used as a vehicle to raise funds for this special project.
Upcoming Events
Thanks to our Mega Balloon Festival Sponsors & Supporters.
