The third weekend in October is an exciting time to be in Natchez for the Great Mississippi River Balloon Race! Anywhere from 60 to 70 hot air balloonists come to Natchez to compete and have fun during the event. Tickets may be purchased online at www.visitnatchez.org sometime in September. Tickets may also be purchased at the Natchez Visitor Center or at the festival gates during balloon race weekend. To avoid standing in line it would be best to purchase your tickets at the Natchez Visitor Center. T-Shirts, Caps, Logo Items, and Sweat-Shirts will be available for purchase at the Visitor Center as well.