Award-Winning Festival Takes Flight November 20-22, 2026, with Multi-Platinum Artist Robin Thicke Headlining Saturday Night
Agua Caliente Casinos, the premier destination for entertainment, gaming, and wellness in the Coachella Valley, is proud to announce its continued partnership as presenting sponsor of the 12th Annual Cathedral City International Hot Air Balloon Festival, taking place Friday, November 20 through Sunday, November 22, 2026. The festival is produced by SoundSkilz, an experienced event production company with over 20 years in the industry and a proven track record of producing large-scale festivals for audiences exceeding 100,000 attendees.
In this sixth consecutive year as presenting sponsor, Agua Caliente Casinos will host a variety of special events throughout the weekend, celebrating a beloved annual tradition that draws visitors from around the world to witness spectacular hot air balloon launches against the stunning desert backdrop.
“Cathedral City is proud to welcome back this internationally recognized festival and our partners at Agua Caliente Casinos,” said Mayor Raymond Gregory. “This event has become a signature celebration for our community — one that showcases the beauty of the Coachella Valley, supports our local businesses, and brings residents and visitors together under the desert sky.”
Multi-Platinum Headliner Returns
Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum recording artist Robin Thicke headlines Saturday, November 21, at the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater, taking the stage at 6:30 p.m. Saturday’s ticketed program opens at 3 p.m., with the No Doubt tribute Just A Girl on the Festival Lawn Glowstage at 3:30 p.m. and the amphitheater opening at 5 p.m. with DJ A-One. The night closes with the Official Festival Balloon Glow and Festival Drone Light Show at 7:45 p.m. Robin Thicke tickets grant access to all festival events.
Friday, November 20, is free for all. The festival opens at 5 p.m. with a U2 tribute concert at 6 p.m., a mini balloon glow at 7:30 p.m., and a drone light show at 7:45 p.m.
Tickets are on sale now at cchotairballoonfest.com.
A Weekend of Signature Experiences
The weekend takes flight Friday morning, November 20, from 6 to 8 a.m. with the Sunrise Launch at Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage — the festival’s traditional kickoff and the first balloons in the air. All three days feature multiple balloon launches, tethered balloon rides (weather permitting), live entertainment, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
Evening highlights include a mini balloon glow Friday night, followed Saturday by the Official Festival Balloon Glow — the festival’s most popular component, where illuminated balloons create a magical spectacle against the desert sky. Both nights close with a Festival Drone Light Show produced by Grizzly Entertainment.
Free Tickets for Cathedral City Residents
Cathedral City residents can again pick up a complimentary ticket voucher for Saturday’s Robin Thicke performance at the ACE Club at Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City, 68960 E. Palm Canyon Drive, beginning Monday, October 12 through Thursday, November 19. Vouchers are redeemed online to claim free concert tickets. Guests must be or become an ACE Club member, and a valid photo ID with a Cathedral City address is required. Limit one voucher per resident, first come, first served while supplies last (500 available).
Rock Out Cash In Drawing
Concert ticket holders can also visit the ACE Club at Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City on Saturday, November 21 between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. to enter the Rock Out Cash In drawing for a chance to win a share of $500 Free Play.
About the Festival
The Cathedral City International Hot Air Balloon Festival has grown from several thousand attendees at its inception in 2015 to a record 35,000 visitors, becoming one of the premier balloon festivals in Southern California and attracting pilots and spectators from around the world. Listed among the Top 14 Hot Air Balloon Festivals by U.S. News & World Report and winner of the Palm Award for Visitor Experience from Visit Greater Palm Springs, the event showcases the natural beauty of the Coachella Valley while providing significant economic impact to local businesses and tourism.
This partnership represents the largest sponsorship investment in the City’s special events history, demonstrating Agua Caliente Casinos’ commitment to supporting signature community events that celebrate the unique spirit of the Coachella Valley.
Complete festival schedule, ticketing information, and entertainment details are available at cchotairballoonfest.com.
About Agua Caliente Casinos
Agua Caliente Casinos are located in Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, and Cathedral City, CA. Collectively, the three properties offer three entertainment venues, 13 diverse dining options, meeting and event spaces, and expansive gaming floors. Forbes Four-Star rated, Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage offers a 16-story, 340-room hotel with resort-style pools and cabanas, a full-service luxury spa and salon, and Pívat Cigar Lounge. Visit www.aguacalientecasinos.com for more information.
About Cathedral City
Cathedral City is the second largest city in the Coachella Valley, serving more than 52,000 residents. With a thriving downtown arts and entertainment district, diverse and inclusive community, and year-round events, Cathedral City is one of the region’s fastest-growing communities. The City continues to invest in housing, economic development, public safety and quality-of-life improvements. For more information, please visit cathedralcity.gov for city services and meeting agendas or discovercathedralcity.com for news, events, and attractions.
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