The Great Pershing Balloon Derby in Brookfield, Missouri is the longest-running continuously sanctioned hot air balloon event in the U.S., held annually over Labor Day weekend. Established in 1977, the event features morning and evening balloon flights, a parade, craft vendors, and the popular “Night Lite” balloon glow. Held at the Myron Peacher Memorial Launch Site, the festival attracts pilots from across the country and thousands of spectators each year.