The H-E-B | Central Market Plano Balloon Festival returns September 17-20, 2026, bringing more than 40 hot air balloons, special shapes and four days of family-friendly entertainment to Red Tail Pavilion / Oak Point Park, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway in Plano.

“There is nothing quite like watching the launch field come alive as the pilots and crew begin inflating the balloons,” says Amy Leone, Balloon Operations Coordinator. “A year of planning leads to those incredible moments. We are thrilled to welcome 12 special shapes that includes a pig, duck, llama, frog, bear, fish, birds, cat, raccoon, and even a unicorn and sasquatch sighting. I can’t wait for everyone to experience the excitement of the inflations and glows.”

The 2026 theme, Shared Horizon, celebrates the vibrant sport of ballooning that has brought North Texas together for more than four decades. It reflects the moment pilots, crews, families and spectators look to the same sky as colorful balloons bring Red Tail Pavilion / Oak Point Park to life. This year’s artwork features sponsor balloons and special shapes set against a sunrise or sunset horizon that has become a Festival signature.

“Each balloon and pilot brings a different story to the launch field, but together they create an experience that belongs to the entire community,” said Jo Via, Festival Director. “From longtime Festival favorites to imaginative special shapes and newly introduced balloons, this year’s lineup will fill our Shared Horizon and give families even more reasons to share in the wonder.”