Each summer, the plains around Thermopolis wake before dawn for a spectacle that stitches the horizon with color and motion—the Annual Hot Air Balloon Rally. As the first light tugs at the edges of the sky, balloons begin their slow, deliberate rise, buoyed by the morning breeze that dares them upward. This event isn’t just about the breathtaking visuals; it’s a chance to engage with a community where the wind is a formidable partner, not simply an obstacle to overcome.

Thermopolis, best known for its geothermal hot springs and vast open landscapes, offers the perfect stage for balloonists. The rally spans four days, usually in late July, when the weather is favorable and the air is steady. Flights launch from the fairgrounds, with pilots navigating variable gusts that push and pull their brightly painted cloaks across the sky, an active dance with nature’s whims.

For visitors, watching the balloons inflate is an experience grounded in precision and patience. Large fans roar to life, filling envelopes as onlookers breathe in the scent of propane and sun-warmed fabric. The landscape below turns into an unfolding map of wide river bends and distant ridges, the Bighorn River daring you to follow its twists. Landing sites dot farms and open fields where crews wait like shadows, ready to assist in the final embrace.

Attending requires no special physical effort, but being ready for early mornings and Wyoming’s changeable summer weather is essential. Dress in layers—mornings can be cool, but the heat of the day demands lighter gear. Footwear should be sturdy enough for walking on grassy fields that might be uneven or damp with morning dew.

Photography enthusiasts will find the rally a rare chance to capture balloons in all stages of flight—from inflation’s hectic anticipation to the smooth, silent glide above Thermopolis’s rugged horizons. The early light reveals textures on the balloons’ surfaces and the surrounding cliffs, while occasional clouds lend depth and drama to the aerial show.

Aside from the visual spectacle, the rally includes balloon rides, pilot meetups, and family-friendly activities. Book rides early; spots fill fast. For those who prefer to stay earthbound, the festival offers food vendors featuring local fare, live music, and a genuine sense of coming together around nature’s elements—fire, wind, and sky.

Plan to arrive the day before the rally to settle into Thermopolis. The nearby hot springs are ideal for relaxing after dawn observations or balanced with a day hike through scenic terrains where elk and hawks quietly claim their territories. This is an adventure about respect—respect for the forces that lift the balloons, challenge the pilots, and invite visitors into the sky’s shifting embrace.

Whether you chase the balloons on foot or simply watch them paint the wide Wyoming sky, the Annual Hot Air Balloon Rally in Thermopolis offers an active, grounded way to experience adventure—one that encourages preparation, attention, and awe in equal parts.