Visitor's Guide

Guide

Welcome, adventure seekers and sky enthusiasts, to the most thrilling and colorful event of the year – The Great Texas Balloon Race! Get ready to witness the skies come alive with a kaleidoscope of hues as majestic hot air balloons gracefully ascend into the heavens. Whether you’re a seasoned balloon aficionado or a first-time festival-goer, our Visitor’s Guide is your passport to an unforgettable experience.

Up, Up, and Away – The Balloon Race: Set your gaze skyward as the balloons take flight in a breathtaking dance with the wind. Marvel at the skilled pilots steering their colorful vessels through the clouds, competing for the coveted title of The Great Texas Balloon Race Champion. Don’t forget your camera – the photo opportunities are as limitless as the sky itself!

Family-Friendly Fun: The Great Texas Balloon Race is a festival for all ages! Keep the little ones entertained at the dedicated family zone, where face painting, balloon artistry, and interactive games await. Create memories together that will last a lifetime.

Culinary Delights: Savor the flavors of the festival with a diverse array of food trucks and vendors. From gourmet treats to classic festival fare, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Grab a picnic blanket and relish your meal while surrounded by the lively ambiance.

Map of location

Navigating the Festival Grounds: Upon arrival, let the vibrant energy guide you through a wonderland of excitement. From the main stage featuring live music to the artisanal market offering local treasures, every corner is a celebration of community and creativity.

Get Directions

Getting Here: Plan your journey with ease using our detailed transportation guide. Whether you’re arriving by car, public transit, or even by bicycle, we’ve got the tips to ensure a seamless arrival. The main portion of this event takes place along the Longview Fairgrounds outside Maude Cobb Convention Center.

Bag, Cooler and Safety Policy

Safety First: Your well-being is our top priority. Familiarize yourself with our safety guidelines, including balloon launch procedures and emergency protocols, to ensure a worry-free and enjoyable experience.

  1. Bags and Backpacks (with or without wheels) are to be no larger than 16” long x 16” high x 8” wide and limited to one bag per family or group, in addition to a standard-sized diaper bag.
  2. Coolers are prohibited.
  3. Outside Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.  The GTBR will have on-site beer concessions, Valid ID required.  Local, State and Federal intoxication laws apply.
  4. Firearms, Knives in excess of 5 inches, Explosives & Other Weapons of any kind are prohibited.
  5. Glass containers are prohibited.
  6. Smoking is prohibited on all grass areas.
  7. Only ADA Service Animals are allowed inside the gates. Pets and support animals are not allowed.
  8. Canopies and pop-up tents are prohibited.
  9. Drones are not permitted anywhere on the premises.
  10. Only medically necessary motorized vehicles are permitted and must be operated at a walking pace.
  11. All persons, bags, parcels, clothing and other items are subject to search upon entry.
  12. We reserve the right not to allow any bag, parcel or other item and to deal with any unattended object or bag in such way as we consider appropriate.

About Longview

Longview, a small city in East Texas, is renowned for its warm and welcoming residents who prioritize excellent service. Beyond the abundant piney woods, a closer exploration of Longview reveals a community eager to assist visitors in discovering the pleasures of the area.

While the presence of pines is undeniable, Longview’s landscape boasts a variety of trees such as oaks, maples, sweet gum, honey locust, and red cedar, offering a picturesque transition from spring through summer and vibrant fall colors that can extend into November in some years.

The rolling hills of Longview are a cherished destination for travelers of all types, whether they navigate on two, three, or four wheels, be it on or off the road.

Longview’s calendar is filled with captivating festivals throughout the year. The Boat & RV Show inaugurates the year in January, followed by Big Techs Industry Tours in February. Noteworthy events include the Great Texas Balloon Race in June, the Fireworks & Freedom Celebration in July, and special occasions like the Freeze Your Fanny bike ride, the Longview Kennel Club’s annual AKC Dog Show, Cinco de Mayo, and the Zonta Antique Show and Sale.

Art enthusiasts will find Longview to be a haven, with year-round activities including a professional symphony, a community band, a historical museum, and a fine arts museum contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

 

Where to Stay and More to do

Feel free to utilize the links provided below to access the Longview Visitors Guide or swiftly locate a hotel that suits your preferences. 

For getting around and you don’t have your own ride, we suggest contacting Uber or Lyft which are both available in the Longview area. We also have a robust public transit system throughout Longview which runs daily minus Sunday and Holidays. 

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