Cathedral City Hot Air Balloon Festival Returns November 20–22 with Balloon Glows and Live Music

CATHEDRAL CITY — November 2, 2026. Cathedral City’s 12th annual Hot Air Balloon Festival is scheduled for Friday, November 20 through Sunday, November 22, 2026, with launches, balloon glows, entertainment and activities across three days.

What organizers are advertising

The event sponsor and festival program describe sunrise balloon launches, tethered flights, a nighttime balloon glow, drone displays, food vendors and music. Individual activities operate at different sites and times; a three-day festival is not one continuous balloon-launch session.

Tickets and eligibility differ

Festival admission rules vary by day and experience. The ticket provider lists a free Friday program and separately priced Saturday events, including an amphitheater concert. Residents should check the official event ticket page for current pricing, proof-of-residence offers and any capacity limits.

Wind is an important variable

Balloons are highly weather dependent. An advance schedule cannot guarantee a launch, tethered ride or nighttime glow. Families should check the festival’s live instructions before traveling, and avoid assuming ticket purchases cover every activity.

Official and organizer sources

Cathedral City Tourism — November 2026 Festival Calendar; 2026 Balloon Festival Sponsor — Schedule and Events; Festival — Official Tickets.

California58 local service reporting. Verify venues, conditions and registration with event organizers before acting.

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