If you’re gearing up for the magical Kanab Balloon Festival in Southern Utah, prepare to be enchanted. Known as “Little Hollywood” for its cinematic legacy, Kanab is a delightful blend of natural wonders, outdoor excitement, and quaint small-town allure.
Kanab Balloon Festival Accommodations caters to all tastes and budgets, offering everything from snug hotel rooms and expansive suites to RV camping spots. Whether you’re after a cozy stay or spacious lodging, you’ll find it here.
Regardless of whether you’re journeying with family, friends, or solo, Kanab’s array of accommodations ensures a perfect retreat to unwind after days filled with natural beauty exploration and the lively Kanab Balloon Festival. This guide will help you navigate the best places to stay, local attractions, and tips for maximizing your Kanab adventure during this extraordinary event.
Nearby Attractions to Explore
While attending the Balloon Festival in Kanab, your adventure doesn’t have to end with the event. This region is encircled by an array of natural wonders and thrilling activities, all accessible by RV.
Natural Wonders
Kanab sits at the heart of the “Grand Circle,” a region celebrated for its breathtaking natural landscapes across the United States. A brief journey from Kanab takes you to the awe-inspiring Bryce Canyon National Park, famous for its distinctive hoodoos, and Zion National Park, renowned for its majestic sandstone cliffs and profound canyons.
Although slightly farther, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is within a reasonable drive and promises an extraordinary experience with its sweeping views and scenic hiking trails.
Nearer to Kanab, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park offers vibrant pink sand dunes ideal for hiking, sandboarding, or simply enjoying the unique landscape. Don’t miss the Toadstool Hoodoos, a hidden treasure with its unusual rock formations.
Adventure Activities
For the adventure seekers, Kanab and its vicinity are packed with activities. Trails like The Wave in Coyote Buttes of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, and the Wire Pass Trail leading to Buckskin Gulch’s remarkable slot canyon, offer hikes ranging from moderate to challenging, all rewarding with their breathtaking views and distinctive geological features.
Water sports enthusiasts will delight in paddling through Antelope Canyon on Lake Powell, where the serene waters, swirly sandstone cliffs, and mesmerizing light effects create an unforgettable experience. Whether you prefer paddle boarding or kayaking, this journey through the canyon is not to be missed.
Off-roading presents an exhilarating challenge, with a variety of trails surrounding Kanab and extending into the nearby national parks. These trails cater to all levels of experience, ensuring an adrenaline-fueled adventure for everyone.
Experiencing the Kanab Balloon Festival
What to Expect at the Festival
The Kanab Balloon Festival, also known as the Balloons and Tunes Roundup, is a vibrant and multifaceted event that offers something for everyone. Each morning, starting at 7:30 AM, the festival kicks off with the hot air balloon launches at the former Coral Cliffs Golf Course. These launches are a spectacle to behold, with over 40 hot air balloons rising into the sky against the stunning backdrop of Southern Utah’s red rock landscapes.
Be sure to arrive early, as the mornings can be chilly, but the excitement and warmth of the event will quickly make you forget the cold.
Beyond the balloon launches, the festival is filled with live music performances. The event features a Battle of the Bands, where local and regional bands compete for the top spots, adding an energetic and lively atmosphere to the festival. You can enjoy these performances on Main Street, where the bands play throughout the afternoons and evenings on Friday and Saturday.
The festival also includes a vibrant vendor fair, which takes place on Main Street from 11 AM to 7 PM on Friday and Saturday. Here, you can find a variety of goods, including local foods, handmade crafts, and unique items to take home as souvenirs.
The evenings are capped off with special events like the Lantern Festival on Friday night and the Balloon Glow on Center Street on Saturday night, where the hot air balloons are illuminated, creating a magical and memorable experience.
Creating a Festival Itinerary
To make the most of your time at the Kanab Balloon Festival, it’s a good idea to plan out your itinerary in advance. Here’s a suggested schedule to help you navigate the weekend’s activities:
Friday, February 14, 2025:
- Start your day early at the former Coral Cliffs Golf Course for the 7:30 AM hot air balloon launch.
- After the launch, head to Main Street for the vendor fair and live music performances starting at 11 AM.
- In the evening, enjoy the Lantern Festival behind Kanab Center at 7 PM, where you can light and launch lanterns into the night sky.
Saturday, February 15, 2025:
- Begin the day with another hot air balloon launch at 7:30 AM.
- Spend the day exploring the vendor fair and enjoying the live bands on Main Street.
- In the evening, witness the Balloon Glow on Center Street at 7 PM, accompanied by live music and a festive atmosphere.
Sunday, February 16, 2025: – End your weekend with one last hot air balloon launch at 7:30 AM. – After the launch, you can either head back home or continue exploring the beautiful landscapes and attractions of Southern Utah.
By planning your days around these key events, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience at the Kanab Balloon Festival.
Seasonal Events and Festivals in Kanab
Kanab, Utah, is a town that celebrates its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty through a variety of seasonal events and festivals. Here are some of the notable events you can experience throughout the year.
Kanab Music Festival
While the Kanab Balloon Festival is a highlight of the winter season, music plays a significant role in Kanab’s festival calendar. Although there isn’t a specific “Kanab Music Festival,” music is a central component of several events.
For instance, the Balloons and Tunes Roundup in February features live music performances alongside the hot air balloon launches. This event includes a vendor fair and live bands playing on Main Street, creating a lively atmosphere that complements the visual spectacle of the balloons.
In addition, the Western Legends Heritage & Music Festival in August is another event that celebrates music. This festival includes a “Country Battle USA” competition where six bands compete for a $10,000 prize, culminating in a street dance finale on Saturday night.
This event blends country and western music with the rich history and heritage of the region.
Western Legends Round-Up
The Western Legends Round-Up, held in August, is a festival that transports visitors back to the days of cowboys and pioneers. This event is a celebration of Kanab’s western heritage and its role in the film industry, earning it the nickname “Little Hollywood.” The festival features cowboy poetry, live music, film screenings, and celebrity appearances. One of the highlights is the rodeo at the Kaneplex Arena, which includes events such as bull riding, bareback broncs, saddle bronc, barrel racing, and team roping.
This event is a genuine taste of real western culture and is a must-attend for anyone interested in the history and traditions of the American West.
RV Camping Near the Kanab Balloon Festival
Located in the scenic surroundings of Kanab, Utah, the Kanab Balloon Festival attracts visitors from all over. For those traveling in RVs, finding the perfect camping spot is essential. One excellent option is the Country Rose RV Park, situated not too far away in Fredonia, Arizona. This park not only provides easy access to the festival but also places you in the heart of the Grand Circle area.
Country Rose RV Park
Country Rose RV Park, while located in Fredonia, Arizona, serves as an ideal camping spot for attendees of the Kanab Baloon Festival. Its strategic location near the Grand Circle area makes it a convenient base. The park boasts an array of features and amenities designed to enhance your stay:
Full Hookups and Spacious Sites: Offering full hookups for every RV site, Country Rose ensures a seamless camping experience. The park features pull-through lots that are spacious enough to accommodate large RVs and multiple vehicles, providing ample space for your camping needs.
Clean Facilities: Renowned for its impeccably clean and well-maintained restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities, the park ensures your stay is both comfortable and convenient.
Wi-Fi and Onsite Propane: Stay connected with the park’s complimentary Wi-Fi service, and take advantage of the onsite propane for all your fuel needs.
Dog Park and Common Area: The park caters to pet owners with a dedicated dog park, allowing your furry friends to exercise and socialize. A common area equipped with grass, a BBQ grill, and picnic tables offers a perfect spot for relaxation and socializing with fellow campers.
Laundromat and Dump Station: With an onsite laundromat and dump station, Country Rose RV Park meets all your RV camping needs, ensuring your vehicle remains clean and functional throughout your stay.
Friendly Staff and Community: The park is not just about the amenities; it’s about the people. With friendly staff and a welcoming community, along with a full-time camp host, you’re assured a pleasant and hassle-free stay.
Although Country Rose RV Park is about a 30-minute drive from Kanab, it offers a tranquil and well-equipped retreat for your visit to the Kanab Balloon Festival. It’s the perfect spot to explore the area’s natural beauty and return to a cozy and friendly environment.
Conclusion
The Kanab Balloon Festival, also known as the Balloons and Tunes Roundup, offers an extraordinary blend of the majestic beauty of hot air balloons and the enchanting allure of Southern Utah. Mark your calendars for the festival dates of February 14-16, 2025, and explore the wide range of lodging options, from cozy hotels to convenient RV camping spots.
This event showcases breathtaking balloon launches, a lively vendor fair, enchanting live music, and the mesmerizing Balloon Glow. It’s a perfect opportunity to also discover the surrounding natural marvels, including Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park.
Ensure you book your place early to immerse yourself in the vibrant skies and the welcoming community spirit of Kanab. Let this festival be a standout moment of your year, creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
