Photo: Courtesy, Open Avenues

A promising new festival that debuted two years ago will return to Fayetteville in 2021.

Local non-profit Open Avenues last week announced plans to host their second SOAR NWA hot air balloon festival on Saturday, Aug. 28 at Drake Field in Fayetteville.

The event will include hot air ballon activities (weather permitting), aeronautic events, circus performers, a kid zone, car exhibit, live entertainment, beer garden, food trucks, a “balloon glow,” and more.

“We are so excited to be able to bring this exciting and unique event back to Northwest Arkansas,” said Kelly Sampson, Development Director at Open Avenues. “We had to cancel last year due to COVID, but as things are turning around we’re beginning to plan for an incredible return in 2021.”

Proceeds from the event will benefit Open Avenues, an organization with a mission to provide employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

The event will kick off at 7 a.m., and will end at around 9 p.m.

Tickets to the event are $15 for adults and $5 for kids 10 and under. Rides and some activities at the event will be available for purchase.

For more information about Open Avenues, visit their website.

For tickets to the festival, visit soarnwa.com.