Shawnee Skies Ignite: Drones & Balloons Ascend

The ninth annual FireLake Fireflight Balloon Fest is set to take place on Friday, August 7, and Saturday, August 8, in Shawnee. Hosted by the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, this free, family-friendly event will feature hot air balloon glows and tethered rides, alongside live music and food vendors. A highlight of the festival will be a drone show on Friday night, utilizing 200 drones to illuminate the skies over Shawnee. Organizers anticipate over 50,000 attendees, drawing from the success of previous years.

Admission to the festival grounds and parking are free, as is access to the live entertainment and the drone show. While many attractions are complimentary, certain activities incur costs. Tethered hot air balloon rides are priced at $25 per person, and a $10 weekend wristband is required for the Kids' Zone, which includes carnival rides. Attendees are encouraged to bring cash for vendors and food trucks, with one ATM available on-site. All balloon activities are contingent upon weather conditions.

Beyond the aerial displays, the festival includes a vendor market, food trucks, a petting zoo, and a splash pad. Musical performances are scheduled for both nights, with Oklahoma Line playing Friday and Austin Snell headlining Saturday. New this year is the Automobilia Swap Meet, held indoors at FireLake Arena. Comprehensive schedules and further details can be found on the festival's website and app.