Hudson Hot Air Affair announces its 2026 event theme of “Sky Walkers Return to Rock” for the 37th annual celebration on Feb. 6-8. We are delighted to return to our longtime venue at EP Rock School with many of our pilots returning to “walk” their hot air balloons across the sky.

Known as the premier hot air balloon rally and winter festival in the Midwest, this family-friendly community event is presented by WESTconsin Credit Union and supported by hundreds of sponsors, partners and volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering with the Hudson Hot Air Affair, please check out our website’s volunteer page for a link to upcoming volunteer needs.

Several countdown events are planned to lead up to the winter festival. They begin on Friday, Dec. 12, from 6:30-9 p.m. with the Hudson Hot Air Affair Kick Off Fundraiser Meat Raffle at Big Guys BBQ Roadhouse, 1237 Hwy. 35 North, Hudson. Join us as we celebrate the “Sky Walkers Return to Rock” theme. Celebrate the return to EP Rock with a nod to our Star Wars theme.

Other pre-events include: a January Name the Porta Potty Contest; Jan. 17 Countdown Event at Hudson Grocery Co-op; Jan. 24 Breakfast Crafts for Kids at Dick’s Bar & Grill; Jan. 24 Croix by Candlelight at YMCA Camp St. Croix; Jan. 31 Countdown Event at Jerry’s County Market; on Feb. 1 the Hudson Area Senior Center will host a Hotdish Cooking Contest and Feb. 4 the HHAA Canvas Party Painting Class. 

Things are warming up for the 37th annual Hudson Hot Air Affair on Feb. 6-8, 2026, at EP Rock School and around Hudson. Find details about these countdown events and all the other Hot Air Affair events at HudsonHotAirAffair.com or visit us on Facebook for the latest announcements and details.

Submitted by Hot Air Affair Committee