Balloons over Bend- Summer Activities to do in Bend, OR

This weekend I found out about balloons over Bend and knew that I had to see it. I have always been fascinated by hot air balloons but never had the chance to see them up close or in person. SO I was elated to hear about this free event that the city of Bend has been putting on for years. Unfortunately, last year it was cancelled due to covid but they were up and running this year. Though it was a little smoky on Sunday morning the views did not disappoint in the slightest.

This is a perfect and simple family activity. No tickets required, they take off at sunrise and sunset at High Desert Middle School. I let my husband and son behind and woke up my 4 year old to enjoy these with me. We woke up at 6 am and made it over to the fields of the middle school by 6:15. Parking was easy and no issues with traffic. We saw lots of families with donuts, bagels and picnic breakfast, I wasn't that on top of it. I really am not a morning person lol, we made due with our granola bars and apple sauce pouches. They also did a "night glow" after sunset and had the hot air balloons lit up again and head off into the sky. I have heard great things about this but we opted for the sunrise wakeup call over sunset.

There were 4 hot air balloons on the football field at the middle school and we laid out blankets with everyone else to watch them set up and then watch the balloons inflate. We got there around 6:15 and watched them get bigger and were also able to walk around the field for different view points. When they actually took off it was so relaxing and calming to watch. Now it is on the bucket list to actually ride in one! If you live in Bend or are visiting during the summer months, keep up to date on their dates for next summer to be able to see this special city event in person. https://balloonsoverbend.com/

Click here for some other summer activities in Bend!