FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Tammy Naumovich
Date: September 23, 2026 Phone: 217-585-2941 ext. 2301
SPRINGFIELD PARK DISTRICT TO HOST NIGHT GLOW FESTIVAL AT SOUTHWIND PARK
[Springfield, IL] – The Springfield Park District invites the community to experience Southwind Park in a whole new way at the return of the Night Glow Festival on Tuesday, September 29th .
The family-friendly event will feature food trucks, music starting at 5:30 p.m. provided by DJ Blake, and the illumination of 10 hot air balloons as they light up the evening sky at Southwind Park.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to watch the balloons inflate, enjoy food from local vendors, and find the perfect viewing spot. The glow begins at dusk, weather permitting, with peak illumination expected from approximately 6:20-7:30 p.m. For the best experience, attendees are encouraged to arrive between 5:30 and 6:00 p.m.
Event Details
Tuesday, September 29 I 5:30-8:00 p.m.
Southwind Park I 4965 S. 2nd Street, Springfield, IL
Admission: $5 per person I All ages welcome
Cash only for admission
Parking is available at Capital Area Career Center, 2201 Toronto Road , with complimentary shuttle service to Southwind Park. Shuttle service is ongoing during the event and is included with the $5 admission, and there is no additional fee. Accessible parking will also be available on-site at Southwind Park.
Visitors should bring lawn chairs and blankets for the best viewing experience. Food vendors will be available on-site, with food available for purchase separately from admission.
For the safety and enjoyment of all guests, no pets are permitted, except for service animals. All sales are final, and no refunds will be issued. The event is weather-dependent. If the event is canceled due to weather, it will not be rescheduled. Parking is not available on 2nd Street.
The Springfield Park District encourages families and friends to gather at Southwind Park for an evening of food, music, and glowing hot air balloons as the community celebrates the fall season.
For more information and the complete event schedule and map, visit springfieldparks.org or follow the Springfield Park District on Facebook.
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For more information on this topic and any other Park District news-related items, please visit our website at www.springfieldparks.org
About the Springfield Park District
Celebrating 126 Years of Parks, People, and Possibilities, the Springfield Park District continues its mission of enriching lives through recreation and conservation. Established on February 8, 1900, it is the second park district formed in Illinois and remains an independently governed municipal agency. The District provides accessible and memorable recreational opportunities while preserving natural resources for future generations. With over 36 parks, recreational facilities, and natural areas, the Springfield Park District offers diverse programs, events, and rental spaces for all to enjoy. Governed by a publicly elected board and operating with less than six percent of local tax funding, the District remains a leader in delivering exceptional value. We have so many fun programs and events happening this year. Find your fun, find your smile at springfieldparks.org.