LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Derby Festival's BalloonFest is taking flight this week with four events over three days, with this year's edition featuring two balloon glows and two balloon races.

The festivities begin Thursday, April 25, at 9 p.m. with the Great Balloon Glow, taking place at Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville on the Waterfront. The Derby Festival said it encourages spectators to arrive early to get a prime viewing spot and see the balloons parade over before the glow. Guests can watch the balloons glow against the night sky set to a special music score as pilots fire their burners.

The Great Balloon Rush-Hour Race will take place the next morning, Friday, April 26, launching from Bowman Field at 7 a.m. Commuters will get an eye-popping view of the balloons as they head to work. The Great Balloon Glow also returns at 9 p.m. at Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville on the Waterfront.

A field of more than 20 balloons will launch Saturday, April 27, at 7 a.m. from Bowman Field for the Great Balloon Race, BalloonFest's signature event. The first Great Balloon Race was held in 1973 and is the oldest portion of the event. 

Admission to the events is free with a 2024 Pegasus Pin, the Derby Festival said. They are $7 at stores and $10 at the entrance to events. 

More on the Derby Festival and upcoming events can be found on its website.