Details On This Year’s Medora Hot Air Balloon Rally

I've heard it a thousand times, "North Dakota is so boring."

Mostly from residents living right here in the Peace Garden State. There's nothing to do. Well, hold the phone, I've got a must-see event for you and your family, and it's coming up very soon.

Introducing one last summer blast. The annual Medora Hot Air Balloon Rally.

This year's event, titled "The Medora Hot Air Balloon Rally," will take place from Saturday, September 6th, through Sunday, September 7th.  This coincides with the closing of the Medora Musical for another season.

There's a full weekend of events scheduled for the whole family.

Hot Air Balloons launch from the Medora Campground entrance at 3370 Pool Drive, Medora, North Dakota, on Saturday and Sunday.

According to the Medora website, if you would like to watch the balloons take off, you will need to meet in the grassy lot south of the Medora campground, next to the city pool and tennis courts.

The event starts at 6:30 am on both Saturday and Sunday.  The alternate take-off location will be near Theodore Roosevelt's old ranch, south of the city of Medora, depending on the weather that day.

Parking is limited; spots near the launch site are reserved for pilots and crew. Arrive early to find parking at Chimney Park and the Medora Musical Welcome Center at 3422 Chateau Road, Medora, North Dakota, 58645.

The balloon schedule for the weekend is as follows:

Saturday, September 6th, there will be a pilot briefing at 5:15 am before the passengers arrive at 5:45 am.  The balloons will take flight at 6:30 am sharp and will land at 8:00 am.  Sunday, September 7th, will see the same exact schedule for pilots and riders.

*If you would like to ride in one of the balloons, you will need to know one of the pilots. Rides are not available for public purchase.

Speaking of Medora, and how North Dakota is often perceived as being so boring. If you know someone who feels that way, consider sharing this video with them.