The skies over Winthrop brighten with the brilliant colors of over a dozen hot air balloons. This 3-day Balloon Roundup is a photographer’s dream. An incredible visual display as the balloons fly over the old western town of Winthrop and with the snow-capped mountains of the North Cascades.

Friday, March 1st - Sunday, March 3rd

Hot air balloons will inflate and launch

Please park at Methow Valley Thriftway. Do not park on the highway or at Ace Hardware.

Balloons begin to inflate at 7:00am behind the Winthrop Inn (located on Hwy 20 at the south end of Winthrop, 960 Highway 20). The balloons generally stay up in the air until about 9:00am. Spectators are free and are welcome to come to the launch site for photos. Local memorabilia will be for sale at the launch site – cash or check only.

Balloons begin to inflate at 7:30am on Sunday.

Saturday, March 5

Balloon Glow

5-6 pm | Join us in downtown Winthrop to watch the balloons inflate. The fire from the balloons brightens up not only the balloons but also the street and the faces of the spectators, young and old alike. This is not an event to be missed. This is a free public event. Be aware of anyone who would try to charge you for attending this free event.