09/07/2026
*40th Atlantic Balloon Fiesta Expected to Draw Thousands to Sussex*
The Atlantic Balloon Fiesta is preparing to celebrate its 40th anniversary this week, with organizers expecting the annual event to once again attract tens of thousands of visitors to Sussex.
The 40th Annual Atlantic Balloon Fiesta will take place September 10–13 in Sussex, bringing together more than 30 hot air balloons, amusement rides, vendors, live music and a major classic and antique car show.
Organizers estimate the free-admission festival draws between 80,000 and 100,000 spectators to the Sussex area each year, making it one of the region’s largest annual festivals. The influx of visitors has a significant impact on the local community, with the Fiesta filling campgrounds, hotels and restaurants throughout the Sussex area during the busy festival weekend.
The Atlantic Balloon Fiesta began in 1985 when local pilots recognized an opportunity to help extend the local tourism season by hosting a hot air balloon event. What started as a small and informal gathering has grown into a major festival that attracts balloonists and visitors from near and far.
This year, over 30 balloon pilots are expected to participate. The colourful balloons will take to the skies during scheduled morning and evening launches throughout the weekend, weather permitting.
Over its 40-year history, the Atlantic Balloon Fiesta has become a cherished tradition for generations of families in Sussex and beyond. Many people have grown up attending the festival, making it an annual opportunity to gather with family and friends.
For those who have moved away, Fiesta weekend has often become a special time to return home, reconnect with loved ones and take part in a tradition that has been part of their lives for decades.
The festival’s legacy can also be seen among the pilots themselves. Over the years, some of the volunteers and crew members who helped make the Fiesta possible went on to become hot air balloon pilots, and now take part in the event from the sky.
This year, seven local pilots will take part in the Fiesta, including one the youngest female pilot in Canada, adding another special connection between the festival and the Sussex community.
The first balloon launch is scheduled for Thursday at 5:30 p.m., with additional launches planned Friday through Sunday at 6:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Paid balloon rides are also available for a fee.
While the balloons remain the main attraction, the Fiesta has grown into a multi-day family festival featuring activities throughout Princess Louise Park and other venues in Sussex. So there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained while you wait for the balloon launches.
Visitors can enjoy amusement rides, an indoor market featuring more than 70 crafters and vendors, live entertainment, a petting zoo, Touch a Truck, magic shows, Ground Zero Laser Tag and Mi'kmaq Heritage Actors. The Ram Rodeo Tour will also be held at the Princess Louise Park Show Centre, while the popular Classic and Antique Car Show will return Sunday.
Weather permitting, the Fiesta will also feature its Magic Night Moon Glow on Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. During the Moon Glow, hot air balloons are tethered to the ground and illuminated, creating a colourful nighttime spectacle.
Admission to the festival grounds is free, although some activities have additional fees. Admission to the Indoor Market is $2.
The Atlantic Balloon Fiesta has become an important part of Sussex’s tourism calendar, with thousands of visitors filling the community during the event weekend.
Organizers say the festival’s continued success is the result of the work of hundreds of volunteers, local businesses, corporate sponsors and community supporters.
They are also thanking landowners throughout Sussex and surrounding areas who allow balloonists to land on their properties.
After 40 years, the Atlantic Balloon Fiesta continues to stand as one of Sussex’s signature events. Known as Atlantic Canada’s most colourful festival, the Fiesta fills the skies with colourful balloons and brings a full weekend of entertainment and family activities to the community.
The festival draws spectators from across Atlantic Canada and beyond, making it one of the region’s largest annual events and a much-anticipated highlight of the fall season in Sussex.
The event will take place rain or shine, although weather conditions can affect balloon flights.
For a full schedule of flights, entertainment, activities and a map go to the Atlantic Balloon Fiesta website - https://www.atlanticballoonfiesta.ca/
