With Balloons Over Vermilion moving to Kennekuk County Park and to the first weekend in June this year, it goes without saying that some other changes must be on the horizon. And Thursday morning (May 7th) on D102’s The Big Show, we found out about two big ones. Tommy B was interviewing BOV Board member Todd Spicer and current BOV co-chair Dean Carlton. And they told us that this year; Friday afternoon June 5th, and Saturday afternoon June 6th; you’ll be seeing something new in the air.
AUDIO: And thanks to great sponsorships by Danville Area Community College and the DACC Foundation, we will have a PROFESSIONAL KITE SHOW, Friday and Saturday afternoons; at Kennekuk Park. Something to do when you’re not seeing balloons, and that’s what we’re aiming to shoot for. And these aren’t going to be ordinary kites. These are going to to be really cool kites, professionally flown; and maybe even have some light effort to them.
And if you like the afternoon schedule, check out the evening lineup. As Dean Carlton explained, BOV’s been working on this one for a couple years.
AUDIO: We are going to have a PROFESSIONAL DRONE SHOW, Friday and Saturday night. If you’ve never seen a drone show flying in the evenings, it is absolutely incredible. Three-hundred individual drones lighting up the skies; doing a custom art display to music. This is the same company that does the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, they’re out of Texas. We have to give a big shout out to the Julius Hegeler II Foundation, Chittick Eye Care, and the Fisher National Bank.
The drone shows are expected to begin around 9:30 both nights.
SEE THIS BALLOONS OVER VERMILION PRESS RELEASE FOR MORE INFORMATION:
May 7, 2026 Balloons Over Vermilion is marking its 10th anniversary in a big way, going “Above and Beyond” with a spectacular nightly drone show grand finale and high-flying kite displays at Kennekuk County Park, June 5–6, 2026.
A highlight of this milestone year will be a custom 300-drone light show produced by FlyLight Drone Shows. The synchronized aerial display will take place each evening, celebrating a decade of the festival’s return to Vermilion County with stunning visuals lighting up the night sky.
“This 10th anniversary is a celebration of the community that has supported Balloons Over Vermilion from the beginning,” said Dean Carlton, event co-chair. “With new additions like the drone show and kite displays, we’re excited to create even more unforgettable experiences for families and visitors.”
The drone show is made possible through the generous support of title sponsor The Julius W. Hegeler II Foundation, whose commitment helped bring this new experience to life. Additional support is provided by Chittick Eye Care and Fisher National Bank.
“We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors whose support allows us to continue growing and enhancing the festival each year,” said Carly Goodwin, event co-chair. “Their investment in this community event helps us deliver new experiences like the drone show and kite programming for everyone to enjoy.”
Festivalgoers can also enjoy daily kite shows from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., presented by Chicago Kites. These colorful, large-scale kite demonstrations will add to the weekend’s atmosphere and provide an engaging daytime attraction for all ages.
The kite programming is courtesy of Danville Area Community College and the DACC Foundation, whose support continues to enhance the festival experience for the community.
Celebrating 10 years of growth and community spirit, Balloons Over Vermilion remains a signature event in Vermilion County, bringing visitors together for a weekend of entertainment, activities, and unforgettable sights both day and night.
For event details, schedules, and updates, visit BalloonsOverVermilion.com or follow Balloons Over Vermilion on social media.
Click HERE to listen to entire interview with Dean Carlton & Todd Spicer.
