The weekend of September 12 to 14, 2025, was marked by the spectacle of hot air balloons and aerial displays on both sides of the Atlantic, as enthusiasts gathered in Harrison, Arkansas, and at Longleat Safari Park near Warminster, Wiltshire. Yet, while one event soared to its full potential, the other found itself grounded by forces beyond human control—reminding everyone that, even in the age of technology, nature still calls the shots.
In Harrison, the 30th annual Arkansas Hot Air Balloon State Championship kicked off on Friday, September 12, bringing a burst of color and excitement to the city's skies. According to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, more than two dozen hot air balloons floated above the landscape, their vibrant hues painting a moving mural against the late summer sky. The event was scheduled to run through early Sunday, September 14, capping three days of aerial artistry and community celebration.
The main attraction on the first night was the beloved balloon glow, a tradition where pilots ignite their burners after dark, illuminating the balloons like giant lanterns. The sight, as reported by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, drew crowds from across the region—families, photographers, and curious onlookers alike—eager to witness the spectacle that has become a hallmark of the championship over its three-decade run.
"It’s always a magical moment when the balloons light up the night," one attendee was overheard saying, echoing the sentiment of many who return year after year. The event’s longevity is a testament to its place in the community’s heart, offering not just a visual feast but a chance to gather, reminisce, and celebrate the simple wonder of flight.
Meanwhile, across the Atlantic in Wiltshire, the Icons of the Sky event at Longleat Safari Park promised a similarly enchanting weekend. Running from September 12 to 14, the festival was set to feature hot air balloon ascents, classic warbird flyovers, and a host of family-friendly attractions. But as the sun rose on Friday, September 12, hopes for a mass balloon launch were dashed by an unwelcome guest: the wind.
According to a statement issued by Longleat on the first morning of the event, "Unfortunately, the weather is against us this morning and a mass ascent is not possible as the winds at 1,000ft plus are three times faster than is safe." Safety, of course, comes first in aviation, and organizers made the call to keep all hot air balloons tethered to the ground. The disappointment was palpable among balloon enthusiasts, but the event’s planners quickly pivoted to ensure the day remained packed with excitement.
Scott Ashman, Head of Operations at Longleat, addressed the situation with both candor and optimism. "The air display was absolutely stunning, and we were delighted to welcome such a range of different planes to the skies above Longleat. Naturally, having hot air balloons able to fly would have been fantastic, but the wind speeds 1000+ feet above the air were too fast for safe flights and safety is always our priority. However, as Icons of the Sky is included in our standard day ticket, we knew there was plenty of different activities for people to see and do even though balloon ascents were unable to go ahead. There were lots of happy faces around and people enjoyed having photographs taken in balloon baskets, listening to Jamma de Samba band and playing on colourful inflatables as well as discovering the many animals that call Longleat home. We are monitoring the weather continually and will be updating visitors throughout each day of the weekend."
Despite the grounded balloons, the skies above Longleat were anything but empty. The day featured dramatic aerobatic displays, including loop-the-loops and trails of multi-colored smoke. Iconic aircraft such as the T6 Harvard and Spitfires roared overhead, thrilling crowds with their vintage power and precision. The Callidus Grob, a favorite among aviation fans, waved its wings as it concluded its display—a small gesture that brought big smiles to the faces below.
Perhaps the highlight of the day was the performance by the RAF Falcons. Flying in from RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, the nine-strong parachute team jumped in formation from between 3,000 and 2,500 feet, trailing red smoke as they descended. Their graceful entrance and precise landing rounded off Friday’s air display slot, earning cheers from the hundreds of visitors who had braved the blustery conditions.
While the balloons themselves remained earthbound, they were hardly forgotten. Tethered displays allowed visitors to get up close to the massive envelopes, including a much-anticipated Wednesday Addams balloon. Photo opportunities in balloon baskets proved popular, especially among families and children. The day’s entertainment was rounded out by the rhythmic beats of the Jamma de Samba band, colorful inflatables for the young at heart, and, of course, the chance to explore Longleat’s renowned animal exhibits.
Back in Arkansas, the weather played along, and the skies above Harrison remained clear enough for the balloons to take full flight. The contrast between the two events—one aloft, the other grounded—served as a reminder of the unpredictability that comes with outdoor festivals, especially those that rely on the whims of the wind. Still, both gatherings managed to capture the spirit of their communities, offering joy, wonder, and a shared sense of adventure to all who attended.
For the organizers and attendees at Harrison’s championship, the successful flights were a validation of months of planning and anticipation. The event, now in its 30th year, has become a staple of the Arkansas calendar—drawing pilots from across the country and visitors from near and far. The sight of more than two dozen balloons soaring over the Ozarks was, as always, a sight to behold.
At Longleat, the setbacks were met with resilience and creativity. While some may have come for the balloons, many left with memories of roaring engines, parachuting Falcons, and unexpected moments of fun on the ground. The organizers’ commitment to safety, and their ability to adapt, ensured that disappointment never took center stage.
As Sunday dawned and both events drew to a close, attendees in Arkansas and Wiltshire alike were reminded that sometimes, the journey is as important as the destination—even if that journey is a little bumpier, or a little more earthbound, than expected. The magic of hot air balloons and air shows lies not just in the spectacle, but in the sense of wonder they inspire, whether viewed from above or below.
