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Shedd Aquarium

Great Galena Balloon Race

Fri, Jun 20 – Sun, Jun 22, 2025 • 5:00pm - 9:00pm

444 Eagle Ridge Drive, Galena, IL 61036

Hot Air Balloon Race and Festival in Galena!

Explore these magical inventions at this spectacular three-day event. Get right up close to the balloons and learn all about them.

This event features more than 20 hot air balloons, three races, a night glow extravaganza, live music, an art show, car show, and activities for the whole family.

The Great Galena Art Show takes over the Big Tent on Saturday night. Local artists show and sell amazing art at an event.

The Great Galena Balloon Race benefits JDRF and Camp Hertko Hollow. The event has raised more than $350,000 for kids with diabetes since the event began in 2002.

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More Information

Shuttle runs every 15 minutes. Parking & Shuttle Locations:
-Big Field - bottom of Mt. Hope R
-South Course parking lot
-East Course parking lot

Cash event - no credit cards/ATM on site
Admission: $10 - adults; $5 - children over 3 years

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