Plano Balloon Fest

PILOT SPOTLIGHT: ROBERT SNYDER

For Robert Snyder, hot air ballooning began with two life-changing introductions: a future wife and a first flight.

Born in Southern California, Robert didn’t discover the world of ballooning until he moved to Las Cruces, New Mexico, to attend New Mexico State University. While there, he met a young woman from Albuquerque who would later become his wife of 32 years. Around the same time, one of his fraternity brothers happened to be a balloon pilot.

A trip to Albuquerque for the world-famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta sparked his curiosity, but it was a flight with his fraternity friend that truly changed everything.

“I was hooked,” Robert recalls.

‘SHARED HORIZON’ LAUNCHES AS THE 2026 THEME FOR H-E-B | CENTRAL MARKET PLANO BALLOON FESTIVAL, SEPT. 17-20

The H‑E‑B | Central Market Plano Balloon Festival announced this year’s theme: Shared Horizon. The artwork celebrates the shared wonder of ballooning that has defined North Texas for more than four decades. It reflects the way pilots and spectators all look to the same sky as colorful hot-air balloons bring Oak Point Park to life, capturing the moment and creating a sense of connection that stretches across the entire horizon.

“Shared Horizon is about more than balloons,” said Jo Via, Festival Director. “It reflects the way this festival brings people together — pilots sharing the sky, families creating lasting memories, alongside an engaged community. This year’s artwork captures that spirit beautifully.”

The 2026 theme and design features sponsor balloons and special shapes, with a sunrise horizon that has become a festival signature.

THINGS ARE REALLY LOOKING UP!

“Things Are Really Looking Up” for the H-E-B | Central Market Plano Balloon Festival & Run that is celebrating its 43^rd year on September 23-25. The City of Plano is the Official Hot Air Balloon Capital of Texas and this annual ballooning tradition will be held at the Red Tail Pavilion / Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve. The three-day weekend features more than 30 colorful hot air balloons, a RE/MAX parachute team exhibition, live entertainment on the FOX4 Main Stage, a spectacular fireworks show, marketing sponsors, food concessions, arts and crafts vendors, a kids fun zone, and more!

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