Get Ready for Sky High Fun at SOAR NWA
The Hot Air Balloon fundraising event is returning to Bentonville! This year will feature Saturday headliner, Coffee Anderson.
This will mark the 5th annual SOAR NWA event, hosted by Open Avenues. on Friday, Aug. 16 and Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, at the Benton County Fairgrounds.
The outdoor event, brought to you by presenting sponsor Sam’s Furniture, is a family-friendly festival
with something for everyone. Gates will open for ticketed guests Friday & Saturday evening from 5-10 p.m.
Activities include tethered hot air balloon rides, nighttime balloon glows, live musical entertainment,
helicopter rides, circus performers, a kid’s zone, car exhibit, beer garden, food trucks, vendor booths
and more. This year, the event will feature acclaimed country music star, Coffey Anderson, on Saturday
evening.
“We’re extremely excited to be able to bring this unique event back to Northwest Arkansas,” said Kelly
Sampson, Development Director at Open Avenues. “Not only does it promise incredible fun for our
attendees, but it also serves as a vital fundraiser for Open Avenues, supporting our mission to create
employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The inclusion of Coffey Anderson this year
adds an extra layer of excitement to the festivities.”
Both one and two-day ticket options are available. One-day tickets purchased in advance are $15 for
adults, $5 for kids ages 3-10, and free for ages 2 & under. Two-day advance purchase tickets are $25 for
adults, $8 for kids ages 3-10, and free for ages 2 & under. Ticket prices increase at the gate and are not
guaranteed as we anticipate a sell-out crowd. Hot air balloon and helicopter rides, as well as various
other activities have additional costs.
Opportunities to learn more, buy tickets, volunteer and submit vendor application are available at
soarnwa.com.
Open Avenues provides life and job skills training, on-site employment, job placement and coaching
services, high school transition programming, as well as transportation. Through the dignity of work,
program participants gain a sense of belonging and purpose as they develop their vocational skills. Learn
more about Open Avenues at openavenues.org.
*Note: All hot air balloon activities are wind and weather permitting.
