SOAR NWA Hot Air Balloon Fundraising Event Returning to Bentonville
Featuring Saturday Headliner: Coffey Anderson
Open Avenues will host its 5th annual SOAR NWA event on Friday, Aug. 16 and Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, at the Benton County Fairgrounds.
This 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 sell-out crowds. Hot air balloon and helicopter rides, as well as various other activities have additional costs. VIP meet & greet tickets with Coffey Anderson are also available while supplies last. These $50 add-on tickets include a private access for a 10-15 minute acoustic set, photo op with Coffey, and an autographed t-shirt.
Opportunities to learn more, buy tickets, volunteer and submit vendor application are available at soarnwa.com.
This event supports the work of Northwest Arkansas nonprofit Open Avenues. 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 for the safety of everyone.
