Experience the Weekend Buzz in Medicine Hat!
This weekend, Medicine Hat transforms into a hub of excitement and creativity, offering a variety of events for everyone to enjoy. From soaring high at the Rise Up Hot Air Balloon Festival to exploring vibrant art exhibitions and taking part in community activities, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, here’s your ultimate guide to the weekend's best happenings:
Rise Up Hot Air Balloon Festival - May 22-25, 2025
The Rise Up Hot Air Balloon Festival is the highlight of the weekend, offering both heart-pounding thrills and peaceful moments in the sky.
Schedule Highlights:
Thursday, May 22: The festival kicks off with the first flights of the weekend at 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Enjoy the spectacle of colorful hot air balloons taking flight over the breathtaking landscape of Medicine Hat. Locations for the flights will be revealed soon, so keep your eyes peeled!
Friday, May 23: The early morning flight at 6:00 AM is followed by a second flight at 6:00 PM. Be sure to stop by Kin Coulee Park for the Balloon Glow at dusk (around 8:30 PM). The Balloon Glow is a mesmerizing event where the balloons light up against the darkening sky, creating a magical atmosphere. This event is perfect for all ages, with food trucks, live entertainment, and a chance to shop for exclusive Rise Up/OCJ merchandise at the OCJ tent.
Saturday, May 24 – Community Day:
Saturday is all about community spirit. The morning begins with another flight at 6:00 AM. Afterward, join the Hues for Humanity Colour Run at 9:30 AM, a fun 5 KM race through the trails that starts at the Medicine Hat Tourism Center. This colorful event brings people together for a good cause and a lot of fun!
As the festival moves downtown, you’ll find plenty of events to keep the excitement going:
Rise Up Market at the Medicine Hat Public Library: Shop from a variety of local vendors offering unique crafts, goods, and festival-themed merchandise from 11 AM to 4 PM.
Art Party and Yoga at the Esplanade (11 AM - 3 PM): Get your creative juices flowing with a hands-on art experience designed for all ages, and enjoy a rejuvenating yoga session for everyone, from beginners to seasoned practitioners.
Food Trucks at Towne Square: Indulge in a variety of food trucks serving delicious dishes throughout the day.
Movies at the Monarch Theatre: Two exciting movie screenings will be available for free admission. The first movie, Inside Out, will start at 12:00 PM, followed by Inside Out 2 at 3:00 PM. Bring the family for an afternoon of entertainment. Concessions will be available, though keep in mind that it's cash-only.
The night will end with another magical Balloon Glow at Kin Coulee Park at around 8:30 PM, where you can enjoy the stunning balloon lights once again as they illuminate the evening sky.
Sunday, May 25: The festival wraps up with one final 6:00 AM flight. Whether you're a seasoned balloon enthusiast or new to the experience, the final flight of the festival is the perfect way to end your weekend in Medicine Hat.
Veiner Spring Fling Dance - May 24, 2025 (7:00 PM - 10:30 PM)
Looking to dance the night away? The Veiner Centre is hosting a Spring Fling Dance featuring live music by the Glenmorin Band. This lively event promises a great evening of music and dancing in a welcoming community atmosphere. Tickets are just $15, and a cash bar will be available to keep you refreshed. Get your tickets at the front desk of the Veiner Centre and come ready to enjoy a night full of fun, rhythm, and community camaraderie.
MHCBS – Yesterday Today and Tomorrow - May 24, 2025 (7:30 PM)
The Medicine Hat Concert Band Society is celebrating a monumental milestone this year – its 40th anniversary! This concert will feature performances that reflect the rich history of the band while celebrating its ongoing contributions to the community's musical landscape. Head to the Esplanade Theatre at 7:30 PM to enjoy an evening of beautiful music that spans decades of dedication and talent.
Skate Skool - May 24, 2025 (11:00 AM - 6:30 PM)
Get ready for a day of free fun at the Kinsmen Skate Plaza with the Rise Up Hot Air Balloon Festival Skate Skool. The event runs from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM, with two exciting skate sessions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, there's something for everyone. Best of all, a free BBQ will be available starting at 6:00 PM, ensuring you can refuel after a day of skating and games. Don’t miss out on the chance to meet new people, show off your skate skills, and enjoy some tasty treats!
2025 Medicine Hat Jayman BUILT MS Walk - May 25, 2025 (10:00 AM)
Lace up your walking shoes and join the Medicine Hat Jayman BUILT MS Walk at Strathcona Island Park. The walk kicks off with check-in at 10:00 AM, followed by opening ceremonies at 11:00 AM. The 5 km route is a wonderful opportunity to support those living with multiple sclerosis, and to connect with the MS community. This heartwarming event encourages participants to walk for a good cause and show their support for MS research and awareness.
Walking History on the Saratoga Trail - May 25, 2025 (10:00 AM)
Step back in time and discover the hidden history of Saratoga Park, once home to a vibrant Métis community. Pat Aaker and her daughter April, who lived in the community for many years, will lead this historical walking tour. Expect a personal and insightful journey through the park, as they share their stories about life in the community and the close-knit neighbors who shaped their experiences. The tour begins at the Visitor Information Centre at 10:00 AM, and it's an opportunity to learn about the people who helped shape the area's history.
Sunshine Ice Cream Crawl - May 25, 2025
Cool off with a Sunshine Ice Cream Crawl, a delightful adventure through some of Medicine Hat's best artisanal ice cream vendors. Whether you prefer classic vanilla or unique flavors made from scratch on-site, this is the perfect way to treat yourself while supporting local ice cream artisans. A sweet way to cap off your weekend and satisfy your cravings!
FANCY PRONK: Reclaiming Queer Histories Through Sculpture – May 23 to July 12
Explore the dynamic exhibition FANCY PRONK, showcasing vibrant and symbolic sculptures by Etty Anderson. This exhibit dives into the history of queer identities, celebrating transformation, strength, and joy. Anderson’s works reimagine queer histories and provide a rich, powerful narrative about resistance, resilience, and celebration. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience art that challenges and redefines history, open at 713 Medalta Ave, Yuill Family Gallery.
Melanie Barnette: frogsong – May 23 to July 12
Another fantastic exhibit at the Yuill Family Gallery is frogsong by Melanie Barnette. This thought-provoking collection reflects Barnette’s experience of being from a place but no longer fully belonging to it. Through sculptures that explore disappearing ecosystems, rural traditions, and decay, the work offers a meditation on memory, change, and the fragile connections we hold to the past. Don’t miss this powerful reflection on identity and place.
Medicine Hat is the place to be this weekend, with an incredible blend of family-friendly activities, cultural experiences, and community events. Whether you’re marveling at the hot air balloons, supporting a great cause, or exploring local art, there’s no shortage of things to do. So grab your friends and family, and make this weekend one to remember! For more information on all these events, visit Medicine Hat Tourism.