Every winter the skies over Winthrop brighten with the brilliant colors of hot air balloons. This 3-day hot air balloon roundup is an incredible sight to see. Hot air balloons fly over the old western town of Winthrop framed by the snow-capped mountains of the North Cascades in one of the only balloon festivals held in a snowy landscape. Weather permitting, up to 20 balloons launch each morning at 7 am. On Saturday night, there is a night glow on the main street in the western themed town of Winthrop.