Centralia Chamber Requests Balloon Fest Location Change to Fairview Park

The 37th Annual Balloon Fest will move to a new venue after utility issues at the previous location.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:53pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of a hot air balloon drifting above a hazy, colorful landscape, capturing the whimsical and festive spirit of a summer event.The Greater Centralia Chamber of Commerce's request to host the annual Balloon Fest at Fairview Park promises a vibrant, community-focused celebration.Centralia Today

The Greater Centralia Chamber of Commerce has issued a request to the City of Centralia to host the 37th Annual Balloon Fest at Fairview Park on August 21-23, 2026. The decision comes after the Chamber discovered that the utility services at the previous location, Foundation Park, could no longer meet the needs of the event. Fairview Park has the necessary amenities, including utilities for vendors, space for hot air balloons, ample parking, and opportunities to enhance the economic impact of the festival.

Why it matters

The Balloon Fest is a major annual event for Centralia, drawing thousands of attendees and providing a significant economic boost to the local community. Relocating the event to a new venue with improved facilities and accessibility could help the festival continue to grow and thrive in the years to come.

The details

The Chamber searched for a new location that could accommodate the event's needs, including utilities for vendors, space for hot air balloons, ample parking, and opportunities to improve the overall experience for attendees. Fairview Park was identified as the ideal location, as it meets all of these requirements and offers additional benefits such as free admission and free parking.

  • The 37th Annual Balloon Fest is scheduled for August 21-23, 2026.
  • The Chamber's request will be presented to the Centralia City Council at their meeting on April 13, 2026.

The players

Greater Centralia Chamber of Commerce

The organization responsible for organizing the annual Balloon Fest event in Centralia, Illinois.

City of Centralia

The local government entity that will consider the Chamber's request to host the Balloon Fest at Fairview Park.

Marcus Holland

The Chamber Director who is leading the effort to relocate the Balloon Fest to Fairview Park.

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What they’re saying

“The urgency of the decision was based on the pending contracts for rentals, 100 craft vendors, 20 food vendors, 35 pilots, sponsors, volunteers, and other services. We are working closely with the City of Centralia leadership, public works, police, fire, and ESDA to ensure that Balloon Fest will be a success.”

— Marcus Holland, Chamber Director

What’s next

The Chamber's request will appear on the agenda of the April 13, 2026, Centralia City Council meeting for intended action. Following the City Council's decision, the Chamber will offer updates on next steps.

The takeaway

The relocation of the Balloon Fest to Fairview Park demonstrates the Chamber's commitment to ensuring the long-term success and growth of this important community event. By addressing the logistical challenges at the previous location and securing a venue with enhanced amenities, the Chamber is positioning the Balloon Fest to continue delighting attendees and supporting the local economy for years to come.