The 12th Annual Cathedral City International Hot Air Balloon Festival takes place from November 20 through November 22, 2026, at the Cathedral City Festival Lawn & Amphitheater.

Main Location: Cathedral City Festival Lawn & Amphitheater (68700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero, Cathedral City, CA), with additional launches at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage and The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa. 

Friday (Nov 20): Free admission to the festival grounds starting at 5:00 PM, featuring a mini balloon glow and drone light show. 

Saturday (Nov 21): Features live music, a No Doubt tribute band (Just A Girl), and headliner Robin Thicke on the main stage at 6:30 PM, followed by the official nighttime balloon glow. 

Activities: Morning balloon launches (weather permitting), tethered balloon rides, full morning balloon flights, carnival games, food trucks, and an artisan market.