The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race and Festival takes place today through Sunday on the banks of the Mighty Mississippi in Natchez.

Since it was established in 1986, has become the largest and most successful festival in Southwest Mississippi. he festival site is located in historic downtown Natchez on the grounds of Rosalie mansion.

There will be over 30 hot air balloons taking flight, plenty of food, carnival rides, and live music.  Here’s the schedule of events through Sunday.

Friday, October 15th

6:45PM  Balloon Glow on Site (Rosalie)

7:30PM  YZ Ealey

9:00PM  The Fabulous Thunderbirds

Saturday, October 16th

7:30AM  Morning Balloon Flight

11:00 AM Festival Gates Open

2:30 PM  Matt Willis Trio

4:00PM  Jamell Richardson

4:00PM  Afternoon Balloon Flight (offsite lift-off)

5:30PM  J & The Causeways

6:45PM  Balloon Glow (Rosalie)

7:30PM  Tank and the Bangas

9:00PM  Christone “Kingfish” Ingram

Sunday, October 17th

7:30AM  Morning Balloon Flight (liftoff TBA)

4:00PM  Afternoon Balloon Flight (Lift-off from The Natchez Bluff)

Click here for more details.

*Balloon flights and balloon glows are weather dependent.