Firelake Fireflight Balloon Festival — Local services in Shawnee

I attended the Firelake Fireflight Hot Air Balloon Festival on August 8, 2025, and unfortunately, my experience was far from enjoyable. While there were a few highlights—such as the creative vendors, fun rides for kids, and the brief but beautiful balloon glow—the overall event lacked organization and consideration for attendees. Pros: • Vendors were engaging and offered unique items. • Plenty of food trucks, though the lines were excessively long. • The balloon glow was visually stunning, but far too short. Cons: • No traffic control whatsoever. Parking was chaotic, and the lack of direction led to frustration and rude behavior. • Despite clear signage prohibiting outside food and drinks, many people brought their own alcohol, which created an uncomfortable environment. • Smoking and vaping were rampant, with no designated areas. Non-smokers were forced to relocate due to the lack of respect from others. • The music was unreasonably loud, and the performer’s use of profanity was completely inappropriate for a family-friendly event. • My friend and I were unable to enjoy the atmosphere or take photos due to disrespectful behavior from nearby families, including smoking directly around us. This event has potential, but serious changes are needed. A larger venue, proper traffic and parking management, designated smoking areas, and stricter enforcement of rules would go a long way in making this a truly enjoyable experience for all. I genuinely hope the organizers take these concerns to heart and make the necessary improvements—because with better planning and respect for all attendees, this festival could become something...

Great Food, Fun activities, and shopping. Clean well organized event. Free admission too! Spectacular UPCLOSE hot air balloon experience 😍 It was like the state fair but better! Lots and lots and oh my goodness LOTS of food trucks! Seriously there something for everyone! Your so close to the balloons when they are getting them up and going you can Literally touch them! Great vendors too. The only sore spot is man oh man CAN SOMEONE DIRECT TRAFFIC AFTER THE EVENT PLEASE?! It was such a disaster with everyone going every which way...it took us almost an HOUR to get out of the parking lot! Also, if you want to ride in the helicopter GET THERE EARLY! They stopped selling tickets hours before the balloons...

Being a newer festival it stilll has some bugs to work out. The balloons are awesome! Alot of activities for kidlets (free and with a fee) And there is a huge # of vendors and food trucks with a pretty good mix of types of food. Definitely will be returning next year! Organizers need to seperate out areas where people can set up with their family/friends to watch the balloons do their "twinkle burn" and where balloon pilots set up. Looked like a few close calls between people walking in the dark and pilots leaving for the night. And Im sure there are some other issues but that was they only 1 I remember. Definitely will be going back! Great...