To keep it to true Fresno County tradition, there’s no better place to kick off the fall season than ClovisFest & Hot Air Balloon Fun Fly, one of our area's biggest community celebrations, held every year on the last weekend of September. while the rest of the nation brings out their sweaters and cooler weather attire, we're still rocking t-shirts and sunnies to enjoy an outdoor event. Wake up early to catch the hot air balloon launch, then spend the day enjoying shopping local vendors, food stalls and a beer garden. This itinerary will give you more ideas to do throughout your weekend if you feel like popping in throughout the day to see different live performances and still get a feel for Clovis as a whole at the free botanical garden and a quick trip down memory lane in our vintage ice cream parlor.

Saturday, September 27

Enjoy Your Day at ClovisFest

Old Town Clovis transforms into a lively hub of vendors, live music, family-friendly entertainment, and the famous Hot Air Balloon Fun Fly. (Pro tip: arrive early to catch the balloons take off just after sunrise.) Wander the booths, grab a churro, check out the children's entrepreneur market to get inspired by our local youth and experience live cultural events throughout the day at the International Village stage! A few of our favorite vendors to check out: Dad's Cookies, the Human Bean, Kona Ice, and we love to watch the International Fashion Show at the International Village stage. 

🗓️ ClovisFest is held the last weekend in September in Old Town Clovis. Tethered hot air balloon rides are available on a first come, first serve basis before launch. The Tethered rides are $20 per person. Please no pets allowed.

End the night with dinner at Colton's Social House

After a full day of ClovisFest fun, head over to Colton’s Social House at Sierra Vista Mall. This spot is a local favorite for burgers and gets lively in the evenings. 

📍 Located at: 1150 Shaw Ave, Clovis, CA 93612

Sunday, September 28th

Start Your Day with a Fall Treat at Monkey Dog Coffee

Start your Sunday slow with a seasonal drink at Monkey Dog Coffee. Grab a cozy fall latte (yes, they’ve got pumpkin spice!) or a locally brewed iced coffee if the temps are still warm outside.

📍 Located at: 386 West Ashlan Avenue Suite F Clovis, CA 93612

Wander Through Clovis Botanical Garden

Head to the Clovis Botanical Garden, just a short drive (or walk) from ClovisFest in Old Town Clovis. Check out the mediterranean garden, cactus garden, and the sensory garden, free to the public and stroller-friendly throughout your visit. Walking through the gardens is an easy break to enjoy away from the crowds of the event.

📍 Located at: 945 N Clovis Ave, Clovis, CA 93611

After the Botanical Gardens, get active at United Skates or No Surrender Laser Tag & Adventure Park 

United Skates Clovis offers classic roller skating with music, arcade games, and snack bars that are sure to keep kids entertained. No Surrender Laser Tag & Adventure Park is another option offering laser tag, climbing walls, obstacle courses, and a full arcade. Both spots are air-conditioned, have food options and close to ClovisFest if you want to go back to buy a few souvenirs to take back home.

📍United Skates Clovis: 2881 Peach Ave, Clovis, CA 93612

     No Surrender Laser Tag & Adventure Park: 1200 Shaw Avenue, Suite 103, Clovis, CA 93612

Make this a Fall Season Tradition

This itinerary isn’t just for first-time visitors, it’s a great go-to for locals who want to kick off fall with a mix of events and enjoy setting the vibe for the upcoming season in Fresno County.

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