TEMECULA, Calif. – The Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival wrapped up its 42nd annual celebration on June 22, offering a weekend of music, scenic hot-air balloon rides, and immersive vineyard experiences at Lake Skinner Recreation Area. From June 20 to 22, thousands gathered to enjoy performances by over 35 country artists—including chart-toppers like Walker Hayes, Cody Jinks, and the legendary Alabama—in a showcase that blended Southern California’s wine country aesthetic with top-tier country entertainment.
Friday night kicked off with a high-energy set from Walker Hayes, best known for the viral hit “Fancy Like.” Saturday was headlined by Cody Jinks, whose outlaw-country style and deeply personal lyrics brought a raw, emotional depth to the festival’s center stage. On Sunday, Alabama closed out the weekend with timeless hits like “Mountain Music” and “Song of the South,” drawing massive singalongs and sealing the festival’s nostalgic, celebratory tone.
Other artists who took to the stage throughout the weekend included Big & Rich with Gretchen Wilson, Russell Dickerson, Midland, Jamey Johnson, Mitchell Tenpenny, Niko Moon, and rising stars like Wyatt Flores. With performances spanning from late morning through sunset, the festival curated a balance of classic, contemporary, and emerging country talent across its multiple stages.
In addition to live music, the festival offered visitors early-morning hot-air balloon rides that launched over the rolling vineyards of the Temecula Valley. Flights, which began at dawn, were priced at $375 per ride and provided breathtaking views of Southern California’s inland wine region. In the evenings, the “Balloon Glow” illuminated the grounds with tethered balloons lighting up in sync to music, adding a whimsical and visually stunning atmosphere to the festivities.
Festival-goers also enjoyed wine tastings from more than 20 regional wineries, with favorites like Wilson Creek and Ponte pouring varietals throughout the weekend. A craft beer garden, gourmet food stalls, and artisanal vendors rounded out the offerings, creating a complete sensory experience for attendees. For those staying on-site, camping areas allowed for full weekend immersion with designated quiet zones, group camping options, and upgraded amenities.
Now operated under Events.com, the 2025 festival introduced several changes that enhanced the event’s appeal. A stronger focus on country music allowed for a more cohesive musical identity, supported by upgraded stage production, curated VIP lounges, and improved crowd flow between performance zones. Organizers emphasized a more streamlined, guest-centric experience that married live entertainment with wine country lifestyle branding.
With attendance estimated between 35,000 and 37,000 over the three days, this year’s turnout was among the strongest in recent history. According to festival representatives, early bookings for 2026 are already ahead of schedule, and future lineups may expand further into Americana and bluegrass genres while maintaining the festival’s core country foundation.
Audience reactions highlighted the seamless mix of nostalgia and novelty. Longtime fans came for artists like Alabama and Jamey Johnson, while younger crowds gravitated toward acts like Walker Hayes and Mitchell Tenpenny. Across all demographics, the common thread was the appreciation for a setting that allowed music, food, and scenery to intersect in a weekend-long celebration.
From an industry standpoint, the Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival reflects a broader trend toward destination-based, boutique festivals. These events cater to lifestyle as much as music taste, attracting travelers seeking immersive experiences that combine entertainment, local culture, and outdoor adventure. In a saturated live music market, such festivals offer a differentiated model that continues to thrive post-pandemic.
With the 2025 edition now concluded, festival organizers are already laying the groundwork for next year. The combination of strong ticket sales, positive attendee feedback, and expanded programming suggest the Temecula Balloon & Wine Festival will continue to grow its reputation as one of the premier summer events in Southern California. Its continued success also reinforces the evolving identity of country music as both rooted in tradition and open to cross-genre innovation—an ethos well-reflected in the weekend’s performances.