From ROSSFORD CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
The Rossford Convention & Visitors Bureau (RCVB), in conjunction with city officials, and the RCVB board of directors, has made the decision to cancel the 2026 Rossford Balloon & Fireworks Fest – America 250, scheduled for July 17-19, because of the hazardous air quality conditions resulting from widespread wildfire smoke.
The decision follows careful monitoring of weather forecasts and air quality reports, as well as consultation with hot air balloon pilots regarding safe operating conditions.
“Nothing is more important that the health and safety of our visitors, volunteers, sponsors, balloon pilots, vendors, entertainers, public safety personnel, and staff,” said Beth Genson, executive director of RCVB. “This was an incredibly difficult decision after more than a year of planning, but we believe it is the only responsible course of action given the current air quality conditions.”
The Rossford Balloon & Fireworks Fest is one of northwest Ohio’s annual summer events, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The 2026 festival was planned as a special celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, featuring hot air balloons, tethered balloon rides, pyrotechnic fireworks displays, Heritage Day activities, live entertainment, vendors, and family attractions.
The cancellation affects all festival activities scheduled throughout the weekend.
While weather forecasts continue to evolve, current air quality projections indicate conditions that could pose health risks for attendees and create unsafe operating conditions for outdoor activities, particularly hot air balloon operations.
The RCVB recognizes the tremendous disappointment this cancellation will cause for sponsors, vendors, volunteers, performers, and the thousands of visitors who planned to attend. The organization extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed to planning this year’s festival.
As noted at the time of purchase and sponsorship, the Rossford Balloon & Fireworks Fest is a weather-dependent event, and circumstances beyond the control of the organizers may require cancellation for the safety of participants and attendees.
“We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, community partners, city officials, public safety agencies, vendors, entertainers, and balloon pilots whose dedication made this event possible,” Genson said. “Although we are heartbroken that we cannot celebrate together this weekend, protecting the health and safety of everyone involved must remain our highest priority.”
For additional information, visit the Rossford Balloon & Fireworks Fest Facebook page or the event website, RossfordBFF.com.
