Balloon Launches 7:30 AM Daily at Ruth Powell School
The 7th Annual Gila Valley Balloon Extravaganza was a spectacular celebration of color, community, and flight. Here are the reels from previous events. With 25 hot air balloons from across the United States filling the skies, each day offered unforgettable moments for spectators and participants alike. From sunrise launches to evening glows, the event brought joy and wonder to the Gila Valley. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all of the sponsors whose support made this event possible, and special thanks to the City of Safford for their generous grant that helped lift this celebration to new heights.
Day 1
Day 2
Home Depot Glow
Day 3
Glow Show
Day 4
Listen to Greg & Susan's Voice of the Valley Podcast For 2025/2026.
Thursday 12/31/26 Super Glow Show Party Safford Middle School and Friday Home Depot Candlestick Glow.
Come meet our pilots and see the balloons up close.
THURSDAY NIGHT NEW YEAR"S EVE
SUPER GLOW SHOW PARTY & BALLOON GLOW:
Tething starts at 5:00 PM Glow Party at 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM Safford Middle School Football Field
FREE TETHER RIDES FOR KIDS
FREE GLOW TOYS FOR KID
FOOD VENDORS
FRIDAY CANDLE STICK & BALLOON GLOW:
Friday 6 PM to 7 PM Home Depot Parking Lot
COOL HOME DEPOT PRIZES
Become a Sponsor!
Going on our 7th year, the Gila Valley New Year's Balloon Extravaganza has become a tradition to many in our community. But we can't bring this FREE, FAMILY-FRIENDLY way to celebrate New Year's to the Gila Valley without the generous support of our sponsors.
Please consider becoming a sponsor to help us keep this event going. Go to Sponsor Signup or email info@gilavalleyballoons.com or contact Greg Lindsey at 928-965-6970. If you are a previous sponsor, simply enter your mobile number and verify the information.
Gila Valley Balloon Extravaganza is now an Official Nonprofit Organization
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, our goals are to educate people about hot air ballooning, promote tourism to the Gila Valley, and provide FREE, family-friendly activities involving hot air balloons. Gila Valley Balloons can accept tax-deductible donations or sponsorships for the Gila Valley Balloon Extravaganza. Sponsors receive passenger flights during the event. Funds received in our 501(c)(3) are used to host the Extravaganza, but also throughout the year allowing us to take balloons to schools, educational events, and community events.
Experience Crewing for a Hot Air Balloon and You Might Take a Flight!
The adventure starts at 6:45 AM in the Lafe Nelson School Gym. Begin by signing up as a new crew person or use your user/password or mobile number to log in.
Crew will be entered into a drawing to win free balloon rides and will receive a cool balloon t-shirt.
REQUIREMENTS to CREW:
No Experience Necessary
Be Responsible, Cooperative and Able to Follow Directions
Be Physically Able to Help with Holding Balloon Fabric
Sponsor applications have been, or will soon be, sent to our previous sponsors. As they confirm their support, their information will be added to this page. If you're interested in becoming a sponsor, please click the 'Sponsors' link in the header to contact us or complete an application.
Generous Support of our Sponsors for 2026/2027...
Extravaganza is the only FREE, family-friendly balloon rally in the state of Arizona and it is ONLY possible through the generous support of our sponsors.
Because we are a non-profit organzation, sponsors choose to receive passenger flights during the event or they can use their donation as a tax deduction. All sponsors receive flights during the event, media promotions throughout the year through social media and Internet websites, and print media including banners on balloon baskets and a banner on the fence at the event.
To become a sponsor for the 2026-2027 event, go to Sponsor Signup or email info@GilaValleyBalloons.com. You can also contact Greg Lindsey at 928-965-6970. Sponsors from previous years can enter your mobile number and verify your information.
Dec. 31, 2026 Thru Jan. 3, 2027
