One of our favorite annual events is the Great Galena Balloon Race and Festival. The event includes everything from live music, balloon races, and a classic car show to local artwork and fantastic food and drink options. There’s something incredibly magical about the evening float, where the brightly colored balloons light up the night sky. The Great Galena Balloon Festival always occurs on the 3rd full weekend in June.

It’s a good idea to get your tickets and, especially your lodging, on the books now for this exciting hot air ballooning event. The Galena Balloon Race is held at the Eagle Ridge Resort, only about 15 minutes from our Bed and Breakfast in downtown Galena. We’ve thought of everything, from beautifully decorated and equipped guest rooms, gourmet breakfast in the morning to an afternoon of wine and snacks, and the warmest, most welcoming service at any lodging in town.

You’ll quickly see why we’ve been voted as the best bed and breakfast on TripAdvisor year after year—where you’ll also notice that each review (nearly 600!) is 5 stars. Not every Galena B&B can make that claim. Join us in the charming town of Galena, and book your next stay today!

Start Planning for the Great Galena Balloon Race

The Great Galena Balloon Race is a celebrated event by locals and visitors alike each year. There’s nothing quite like the sight of a colorful rainbow of balloons soaring through the sky. Here’s the itinerary for the balloon festival.

Friday:

• The gates open at 5 pm, with live music starting at 5:30 pm. The balloons hit the sky for the Gallina Balloon Race at 6 pm—watch as the colorful globes float away throughout the evening. Be sure to pop by one of the food stalls for burgers, hot dogs, and tacos. Admission is only five dollars for all adults, and proceeds benefit Camp Hertko Hollow, a place supporting kids with diabetes.

Saturday & Sunday:

• Day two and three of the Galena Balloon Race are for the early birds as the fires are lit as early as 5 am! It’s a peaceful morning watching the balloons head out as the sun rises. Saturday evening features live music from The Wundo Band, and the classic cars will be on display starting around 6 pm. Also, check out the Great Galena Art Show from 5 pm to 9 pm with original works from regional artists.

Plan Your Own Hot Air Balloon Ride:

• If you can’t make it to Galena for this exciting event, you can still enjoy a majestic hot air balloon ride over Galana with Galena On the Fly. One of their experienced pilots will fly you over the rolling landscape of Jo Daviess County for some of the most spectacular views of the area. Upon landing, you’ll be treated to a Champagne toast! It’s truly an unforgettable experience.

The Most Elegant Lodging at our Galena Bed and Breakfast

As you arrive at the front steps of the Jail Hill Inn, you’ll know right away that our B&B isn’t your average lodging choice. As a fully remodeled and refurbished 1878 county jail building, the character is remarkable and unique. We’ve kept architectural details that call back to the olden days, but every inch of our Inn exudes luxury with high-end, modern touches, impeccable decor, and elegant details.

We take extensive care to serve our guests beautiful and seasonal morning meals, packed with fresh ingredients and prepared with love (and always paired with piping hot coffee, fresh juices, and fruit.) The afternoon calls for happy hour, which is delivered to your door in the form of wine and house-made appetizers. Warm and welcoming hospitality is our goal for each and every guest who spends their precious time with us!

Start planning your next trip to the Galena Balloon Race and book your stay today!