Moncton 
New Brunswick’s most colourful festival is back again for its 39th edition.
Atlantic Balloon Fiesta
The Atlantic Balloon Fiesta takes place in Sussex, New Brunswick, from September 10 to 13. This annual fiesta is held every September on the weekend after Labour Day.
What to Expect:
The Atlantic Balloon Fiesta, now a staple in Sussex, combines hot air ballooning with community activities, food vendors, and live music. Events run from early morning until late evening throughout the weekend.
Balloon Flights & Night Glow:
There will be more than 25 hot air balloons in all sorts of vibrant colours floating in the sky. The balloons take flight twice a day and fly at a height of around 500 to 1000 feet above the ground.
The morning flights depart at 6:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. each day. Flights can be booked by visiting the information booth inside Golden Jubilee Hall.
Each basket can accommodate four people and the pilot. If you want to go with your friends, you will have to mention it on the form. Flights cost $350 per person.
Over these three days, there are numerous activities for you to do other than flying in these hot air balloons.
On the evenings of Friday and Saturday, be sure to attend the Magic Night Moon Glow, when hot air balloons are lit simultaneously, creating a spectacular sight.
What Else to Do at the Festival:
The festival features a range of attractions.
Live Concerts:
The Fiesta Main Stage keeps the Atlantic Balloon Fiesta buzzing September 11–13 with three days of live music. Friday brings pop and club rock from Thirsty Rangers and Old Cherry. Saturday moves through acoustic, mixed, rock and country sets, including Fifth Gear and Shane Douthwright & The Road Kings. Sunday shifts from worship and children’s entertainment to classic rock, Celtic sounds and a closing country jam with Bob Burgess & Friends.
Vendor Village:
Explore the Atlantic Balloon Fiesta’s lively Vendor Village, where regional flavours, handmade crafts and creative finds come together in one bustling marketplace. Meet local artisans, sample tasty treats and browse unique treasures throughout the weekend. Admission is $2, with children under six free. Open Friday from noon to 9 PM, Saturday 9 AM to 9 PM, and Sunday 9 AM to 5 PM.
Car Show:
Hot Rides rolls into the park on Sunday, September 13, with free admission for both participants and spectators. Expect an eye-catching lineup of classics, custom builds, polished chrome, bold paintwork and oversized rides, with past events attracting more than 500 vehicles. Registration runs from 8:00 to 11:00 AM, followed by the awards ceremony at 1:30 p.m.. The event wraps up at 2:00 p.m.
More Family Fun:
Explore the New Brunswick Geology Exhibition Tent for fossils, rock identification and science demonstrations, then meet animals at the petting zoo or enjoy pony rides. Kids can tackle games, amusement rides, Bubble Blast, Touch a Truck, magic shows, BMX action, a reptile show, Kid Zone, Princess Tea Party and adventure playground, with balloon launches adding festival magic.
Trip Planning: Atlantic Balloon Fiesta
Atlantic Balloon Fiesta
What: Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival featuring balloon rides, plenty of entertainment, market and car show
When: September 10 to 13, 2026
Vendor Village:
• Friday: 12 PM – 9 PM
• Saturday: 9 AM – 9 PM
• Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Outdoor Car Show: Sunday: 8am – 2pm
Night Glow: 8:00 pm on Friday & Saturday
Balloon Rides: Wednesday to Sunday: 6:30am, 5:30pm
How Much: Free
Some activities ticketed; indoor market: $2
Pony Rides – $10
Feed Bags – $5
Ballon rides: $350.00 per person, cash only at the launch field entrance gate.
Where: Princess Louise Park, Sussex
More Information — Balloon Rides; Weekend Schedule
