The Ohio Challenge

06/26/2026

Joining us at The Ohio Challenge is Sean Askren flying the vibrant Airheads balloon!

With its bold red design and candy-inspired theme, Airheads is sure to stand out among this year's incredible lineup of balloons.

Don't miss the chance to see Sean and Airheads soaring above Smith Park this summer!

06/25/2026

You will be eligible to join Team Fastrax behind the scenes at the hanger or at the jump zone for a special experience:

Co-pilot
One winner (age 18+, no guest) for the 6:30p and 8:30p (approximate time) jumps.
Requires a 60-minute commitment.

To enter visit: https://ohiochallenge.com/enter-to-win/

06/25/2026

Get ready to welcome Chris Sabia and his colorful balloon, Wonder Bread, to The Ohio Challenge!

Recognizable from a distance, this iconic balloon brings a bright splash of color to the skies and is always a fan favorite on the launch field.

Be sure to keep an eye out for Chris and Wonder Bread during this year's festival as they take flight over Middletown!

06/24/2026

🎈 Experience Hot Air Ballooning Like Never Before! 🎈

We're excited to welcome a team of students from Miami University to The Ohio Challenge!

As part of their Capstone Project, they've developed an immersive Virtual Reality hot air balloon experience that allows guests to see what it's like to soar through the skies from the basket of a balloon.

Visitors will have the opportunity to try the VR experience firsthand while spectators can watch the action on large display monitors.

This innovative attraction combines technology, aviation, and education, making it a perfect addition to this year's festival lineup.

Be sure to stop by Sponsor Row and check it out during The Ohio Challenge!

06/24/2026

You and a guest will be eligible to join Team Fastrax behind the scenes at the hanger or at the jump zone for a special experience:

Pyrotechnics Pre-Jump
3 Adult Winners (plus a guest > age 4) will be selected for the 9:30pm jump.
Requires a 60-minute commitment.

To enter visit: https://ohiochallenge.com/enter-to-win/

06/23/2026

You and a guest will be eligible to join Team Fastrax behind the scenes at the hanger or at the jump zone for a special experience:

3 Adult Winners (plus a guest > age 4) will be selected for each of the 6:30p and 8:30p (approximate time) jumps. Requires a 60-minute commitment.

To enter visit: https://ohiochallenge.com/enter-to-win/

06/23/2026

06/22/2026

You and a guest will be eligible to join Team Fastrax behind the scenes at the hanger or at the jump zone for a special experience:

4 Adult Winners (plus a guest > age 4) will be selected for each of the 6:30p and 8:30p (approximate time) jumps. Requires a 30–45-minute commitment.

To enter visit: https://ohiochallenge.com/enter-to-win/

06/22/2026

A huge thank you to Meijer for sponsoring our Special Shape Balloons at this year's festival!

These fan-favorite balloons bring extra excitement, bigger smiles, and unforgettable photo opportunities for guests of all ages. From unique characters to one-of-a-kind designs, you never know what might appear on the launch field.

Join us July 17-18 and experience the magic of our Special Shapes, made possible by Meijer!

📍 Smith Park | Middletown, Ohio

06/21/2026

🎈 Experience the Magic of The Ohio Challenge! 🎈

From colorful hot air balloons filling the sky to breathtaking special shapes, thrilling skydiving performances, carnival rides, great food, family fun, and our spectacular drone and fireworks finale — there's nothing quite like The Ohio Challenge.