Empire State Review Contributor 
Temecula, CA – The Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival made its highly anticipated return to Lake Skinner Regional Park on June 20, 2025, kicking off a three-day celebration that brought together hot-air balloons, local wines, and a star-studded lineup of country music acts. The Friday opening set the tone with a performance by contemporary country star Walker Hayes, who headlined the night to a lively crowd.
The festival’s programming featured more than 35 country music performers spread across three open-air stages. Attendees enjoyed a range of styles from classic country to outlaw and modern pop-country, showcasing the genre’s evolution. Saturday’s main attraction was Cody Jinks, whose deep baritone and roots-inspired lyrics appealed to traditionalists, while Sunday concluded the weekend with a set from Alabama, one of country music’s most iconic bands.
Temecula’s event has long distinguished itself from other music festivals by embracing the region’s viticultural identity. Guests sampled offerings from a wide array of local wineries, many of which are part of the Temecula Valley Wine Country circuit. Artisan food vendors provided a wide selection of cuisine ranging from California coastal fare to Southern barbecue, enhancing the festival’s culinary appeal. Festivalgoers also took part in a craft beer garden, a growing addition as Temecula’s microbrew scene gains popularity.
The signature feature of the event remained the hot-air balloon displays. Mornings began with balloon launches at dawn, painting the sky in a mosaic of colors as the sun rose over the valley. Evening programs included tethered rides for guests preferring a shorter excursion and the well-loved “Balloon Glow” where grounded balloons lit up in sync with music, creating a visually striking nighttime display.
To encourage longer stays and deeper participation, organizers offered on-site camping options. These ranged from general camping plots to more premium packages including RV access, shaded VIP lounges, and concierge services. Many guests opted to spend the full weekend on the grounds, allowing for an immersive festival experience that combined outdoor leisure, live performances, and Temecula’s rustic charm.
Beyond the headliners, the weekend included performances from Big & Rich with Gretchen Wilson, Jamey Johnson, Russell Dickerson, Midland, Mitchell Tenpenny, Wyatt Flores, and several up-and-coming artists. These acts filled the lineup with a diversity of sound and energy, attracting fans of all ages and styles.
Festival organizers reported strong ticket sales leading into the weekend, with Friday’s turnout already exceeding expectations. General admission and VIP passes were both in high demand. Discounts were extended to military personnel, and promotional codes circulated on local platforms encouraged regional attendance. The optimism around attendance numbers was matched by the overall mood on-site, as the weather held steady and the atmosphere remained festive and welcoming.
As Temecula continues to develop its reputation as a wine and cultural destination in Southern California, events like the Balloon & Wine Festival play a central role in drawing tourism and spotlighting local businesses. The festival also complements other weekend attractions in the region, such as a Juneteenth beachside barbecue in La Jolla and a charitable ice cream event in North Park, showcasing the breadth of entertainment and community engagement available in the area.
For residents and travelers alike, the Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival remains a unique combination of scenic beauty, musical variety, and regional pride. Its continued success reflects the growing appetite for experience-driven events that celebrate both local culture and national talent. As the final performances take the stage and balloons prepare for one last ascent, the 2025 edition of the festival is shaping up to be one of its most memorable yet.
