What began as a local celebration has now grown into a regional destination for families, foodies, music lovers, and hot air balloon enthusiasts alike.
“This is our third annual Hot Air Balloon Festival,” said Shawnel Hebert, lead event organizer. “The main focus point is obviously the hot air balloons—you know, the tethered rides and the balloon glow—but there’s so much more. Elise [Holden] is bringing in a great group of vendors this year, and we’ve got food trucks from all over the state. Our live music lineup is the biggest yet, and we’ve added a second night, so we’re very excited about that.”
Hot Air Balloon Rides & Glow
Tethered balloon rides will lift attendees just above the tree line, offering a taste of flight for $20 (ages 13+) and $15 (ages 12 and under)—sold on site. At dusk, the Balloon Glow will illuminate the park in a breathtaking display, weather permitting.
Festivalgoers can spread out a blanket, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy free live music on both nights. “If you want to just come and lay your blanket out and listen to music, that of course is free,” said Elise Holden, vendor coordinator.
Food, Vendors, & Family Fun
Holden shared that 78 vendors will be onsite with everything from handcrafted honey items and crochet to interactive fun like cookie decorating. “I have a specialty cookie maker coming where you get to decorate your own hot air balloon cookie,” she said. “It’s little things like that that make the festival magical.”…