Save the Date!!
Friday-Sunday, July 17-19, 2026
In the Crossroads
Become a 2026 Sponsor!! - Click here!
See updated 2026 Schedule below
Thanks for attending the 2025 event.
2025 Photos and Videos
Hot Air Balloons 2026
Meet the Magic Behind the Balloons!
Welcome to the heart and soul of the Rossford Balloon & Fireworks Fest—our amazing hot air balloons and the pilots who fly them!
From colorful classics to creative showstoppers, each balloon has its own story—and so does the skilled pilot guiding it through the sky. Scroll down to meet the talented crew, see the balloons up close, and get to know the high-flying heroes who bring the magic to life!
America Celebrates 250 Years
Darkstar
Sponsored by: TBA
Pilot: Space Joseph Clark
Balloon Name: Darkstar
What got you started?
Grew up watching and helping launch balloons from Cherokee Park in Brimfield, Ohio. I have always been fascinated with anything that flew. Fast forward 30 years, and I began flight crewing for heaven-bound ascensions. My first balloon ride was in late 2022. Upon landing, I immediately applied for my student license. I earned my private pilot license in 2024, followed by my commercial pilot license in early 2025.
How did you name your balloon?
Inspiration was taken from Star Wars and Spaceballs movies. Additionally, the balloon glows spectacularly at night.
Jabberwocky
Sponsored by: TBA
Pilot: Andrew Barnum
Balloon Name: Jabberwocky
How did you choose and name your balloon?
Just came to us. Name of the monster in Alison Wonderland. It’s from a Lewis Carroll poem. Beware of the Jabberwocky.
How long have you been involved in ballooning?
42 Years
What got you started?
Crewing for my dad.
How many events do you participate in a year?
4-6 a Year.
Describe your ideal flight.
Evening flight, 5-6 mph wind. Great crew. Taking off and landing on manicured short grass.
What is your most interesting ballooning story?
Crewing for the Mr. Peanut balloon and flying out of Central Park, NYC.
Shenanigans!
Sponsored by: TBA
Pilot: Elizabeth McClurg
Balloon Name: Shenanigans!
How did you choose and name your balloon?
Well, I went back and forth between a few, but in the end Shenanigans just fit. It fits my crew and me well. We like to have fun and bring joy with us.
How long have you been involved in ballooning?
4 Years
What got you started?
A good friend of mine found out he needed a serious medical pro that would stop him from crewing for 8-12 weeks, he asked if I'd be willing to come learn. I said sure and crewed for the first time on January 31, 2021, it was 4 degrees! I got to fly with the pilot for part of the ride and had a wonderful experience with the group. I crewed for that pilot and several others over the next few months and that was it. I did in May of 2021, bought my balloon in July and took my written exam in October. I started lessons the following May and took my private check ride in September of 2022.
What is your most interesting ballooning story?
My most interesting balloon story would be my first time flying in West Virginia. It was my first time flying at varying altitudes, and it was a real experience. Learning how the balloon responded differently and how the winds changed differently was something I was excited to experience and learn. My sponsor had me fly two riders each flight, which was another first for me in event experience. I had successful and fun flights and realized I was capable of understanding and reading different winds, which I was a little concerned about prior to the event. It was a really great time.
2026 Rossford Balloon & Fireworks Fest – SCHEDULE
SPONSORSHIP & PROMOTIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Imagine the sky painted with vibrant balloons during the day and dazzling pyro musical fireworks displays lighting up the night. Sounds amazing right?
Ever dreamed of having a hot air balloon named after your business? A pyro musical fireworks show that you help bring to life? A live musical performance with your name on it? Now's your chance! And there are so many perks and benefits for your business!
If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, there are promotional packages starting at $1,500. Click here to access all the details:
For more information contact Beth Genson, Director of the Rossford Convention & Visitors Bureau and committee chair at bethgenson@visitrossfordohio.com or call her cell phone at 419-308-7530.
DONATE to the 2026 ROSSFORD BALLOON & FIREWORKS FEST!
We are thrilled to invite you to be a part of something truly magical; the 2026 Rossford Balloon & Fireworks Fest! Any amount helps. Your generous donation will directly support the festival's activities and local causes. A portion of the money raised will benefit the Wood County Firefighters Association. Knowing that you've contributed to an event that brings joy and benefits the community is priceless!
