September 29, 2025 — Old Town Clovis transformed into a sea of smiles and celebration this past weekend as the 50th Annual ClovisFest & Hot Air Balloon Fun Fly drew record-breaking crowds. The milestone event, presented by Chukchansi Gold Casino and Resort with the Noble Credit Union Hot Air Balloon Fun Fly, carried on its tradition of free, family-friendly fun while showcasing the heart of the community.
Thousands gathered at the Clovis Rodeo grounds before dawn on Saturday and Sunday to witness one of the festival’s most beloved sights: hot air balloons inflating against the early morning sky. By 6:15 a.m., pilots began preparing for liftoff, and by 7 a.m., the balloons rose gracefully into the cool fall air. Families enjoyed breakfast on-site as they waited, with children pointing skyward in awe at the colorful spectacle.
Greg Newman, CEO of the Clovis Chamber of Commerce, described this year’s turnout as one of the biggest he has ever seen. “The whole rodeo grounds parking lot was just packed today with folks coming out and wanting to see these balloons inflate,” Newman said. “It was standing room only out here. Everybody had a big smile on their face to see these balloons. The weather was absolutely perfect.”
With around ten balloon pilots and crews participating, the launch became the centerpiece of an event that stretched into the day with street vendors, live entertainment, and cultural showcases. Attendees explored the International Village on 4th Street, organized by the Fresno/Clovis Convention & Visitors Bureau, featuring performances and cuisine from around the globe.
For Newman, the highlight was seeing families together. “I just love to see the families come out, the kids, they just look so happy to see these balloons taking off,” he said. “It’s part of the fabric of Clovis. It’s the start of fall—perfect weather, great balloons, a lot of fun folks to spend time with. Whatever it is, people love it.”
Vendors came from across the western United States to be part of the anniversary celebration, bringing a mix of festival foods, handmade crafts, and specialty goods. Newman noted that the Clovis hospitality makes the event a favorite for returning vendors. “They love our citizens and their customers, and they want to come year after year,” he said.
The festivities carried through the weekend from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with Old Town Clovis buzzing with activity. Free to attend and offering free parking, the 50th anniversary proved why ClovisFest has endured as a hallmark of the community for half a century.
As Newman put it, “It’s just the ultimate Clovis experience.”