Some may picture A-list celebrities strutting down palm tree lined boulevards. Other’s imagine soft sand beaches complete with 10-foot waves. Yet, there is another side to California that sometimes gets buried beneath the Golden State’s exterior. Consider rolling wineries smothered by green hillsides and soaring hot air balloons dotting the open sky. This is the reality of Temecula Valley; known for its open landscape and of course, the balloon festivals. Let the good times float at the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival in beautiful Western Riverside County, California.

Rated one of the best hot air balloon experiences in Southern California in 2021, Temecula prides itself on their spectacular balloon effects. Besides displaying balloons, they also host headliner entertainment and wine tasting from ranches all over Southern California. Above all, the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival is the perfect weekend getaway for families, friends, and couples alike.

Former commercial airline pilot, Walt Darren, founded this festival in 1983. With the help of event organizer Evelyn Harker, they combined some of California’s most successful wineries with the colorful aviation of hot air balloons. The weekend festival draws in spectators from all over the world who wish to view the valley in a unique light, with a form of transportation that leaves them in awe and wonder.

The opening display of balloons is scheduled to dazzle the wide landscape on the first evening of the festival. As the sun sets over the valley, the illumination of balloons will relight the night sky. Balloons boasting all sorts of shapes and sizes create a motion picture in front of hundreds of spectators. These balloons in particular will not lift off, so plan to grab a viewing spot with a glass of wine and enjoy the show!

Along with sunset balloon displays, the festival also hosts sunrise events from 6-8 am. Guests can experience the beauty of balloons in a whole new light. Greet the morning sunrise with a sensational blend of colors, textures and pigments all blended onto one canvas. This magical experience will leave you wondering if you are still dreaming.

For those daring to take their love of air balloons to the next height (quite literally), a morning balloon tethered ride is the opportunity of a lifetime. The balloon will take its passengers about 100 feet in the air where they can soak in the close surrounding sights of the valley. After experiencing this floating masterpiece, the balloon will slowly and safely descend back to the ground. Be advised that this event is very popular, so it is highly recommended that attendees arrive early, and keep an eye out for weather and/or cancelations.

There is no better place to camp out during this festival than under the clear, open skies of California. Lake Skinner is hosting a wide array of campsites for those who wish to stay on the campgrounds of the festival. Attendees can rent a site and can purchase full water and electric hook-ups. An ‘exclusive festival’ experience is even an option as well. This experience includes a full hook-up campsite, two VIP lounge tickets to the Cabana Club, and even meet-and-greet passes for the festival’s entertainer of your choice. While the entertainment lineup has not yet been announced, past performances have included Blake Shelton, 3 Doors Down, and Kenny Logins.

This festival would not be complete without the taste of local California wine. California is known for its wineries due to the state’s reliably warm weather, which in turn produces ripe fruit. Vendors from across the state will unite to bring guests an unforgettable experience. Owners, staff, and winemakers from the vending wineries will be present; available at the ready to share information regarding their wineries and best-kept secrets. Wineries at the Wine Stage are scheduled to pour from 3pm-9pm on Friday, 11am to 9pm on Saturday, and 11am-5pm on Sunday, the final day of the festival. Whether it’s red or white, sweet, or earthy, all types of wine enthusiasts are sure to discover or learn something new.

The Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival draws in guests from all over the world who share a passion for wine and the arts. Experience breathtaking views of the rolling Southern California valley while soaking in the sights of dazzling hot air balloons. Grab your tickets and hop aboard. There are clear skies ahead here in Temecula Valley.