2024 Hot Air Balloon Festivals in New York & New Jersey
New York Festivals
Hot air balloon festivals in New York offer a magical experience, where vibrant colors fill the sky, and a sense of wonder envelopes all who attend. These festivals have become increasingly popular, combining the thrill of flight with the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. As we look ahead to 2024, let’s delve into the excitement awaiting us at the top 6 hot air balloon festivals in New York.
May 24th- May 26th, 2024
Archery Field ,1 Letchworth State Park , Castile, NY 14427
The Letchworth Red, White & Blue Balloon is held annually on Memorial Day weekend. Approximately 20 balloons will splash the Letchworth Gorge with color. All launches are wind and weather permitting. Flights occur from the Archery Field Overlook at the Castile entrance on Friday, Saturday & Sunday nights at about 6 PM and Saturday & Sunday mornings at about 6 AM. Pilots attend this non-commercial event to enjoy the unique experience of flying amidst the beauty of the “Grand Canyon of the East.” The event is free to the public, although you must pay the entrance fee to the Park if you arrive during regular operating hours.
Cambridge Hot Air Balloon Festival
June7th- June 9th, 2024
Cambridge Central School, 24 S Park St, Cambridge, NY 12816
The Cambridge Valley Chamber of Commerce, the organizer of the event, is putting together the schedule of activities, which will include four launches of 10 hot air balloons (Friday & Saturday evening and Saturday & Sunday morning). All launches take place at the Cambridge Central School on Route 22 (wind and weather permitting). Evening launches typically occur around 7 p.m.; morning launches at 5:30 a.m. What you should know: This is a community event and free to attend; in addition to the Hot Air Balloons, there are Carnival Rides, Craft Vendors, Car Show & Food trucks, and so much more.
Great Wellsville Balloon Rally
July 19th - July 21th , 2024
Island Park. 114 North Main St, Wellsville NY, 14895
This year marks the 49th anniversary of this rally. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring sight when over 30 Hot Air Balloons take flight from Island Park and fill the sky in a delightful rainbow of color while gracefully floating over The Genesee River and the beautiful green hills and fields of Wellsville and the surrounding communities. You should know that admission is free to attend; over 30 Hot Air Balloons will take flight at 6:00 am on Saturday and Sunday and also at 6:00 pm on Friday and Saturday—weather permitting.
Spiedie Fest & Balloon Rally
August 2nd - August 4th, 2024
Otsiningo Park, 1 Otsiningo Park Binghamton, NY 13905
For a unique twist on the traditional hot-air balloon festival, look no further than the Spiedie Fest & Balloon Rally Expo in Binghamton, New York. This multi-day event celebrates the region’s culinary heritage with its famous spiedie sandwiches while also showcasing the artistry of hot-air ballooning. Visitors can enjoy balloon launches throughout the weekend, live music, car shows, and various food vendors. With its diverse attractions, the Spiedie Fest offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Adirondack Balloon Festival
September 19th - September 22nd, 2024
Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport , 443 Queensbury Ave Queensbury, NY 12804
With a rich history dating back over four decades, this festival has become a beloved tradition in upstate New York, enchanting attendees with its unique blend of tranquility and thrill.
Adirondack Balloon Festival is held annually in Queensbury, New York. This beloved event takes place against the stunning backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains, offering breathtaking views for both spectators and balloonists alike. Visitors can marvel at the colorful spectacle as dozens of hot air balloons take flight, painting the sky with vibrant hues. In addition to balloon launches, the festival features live music, craft vendors, and delicious food, making it a perfect outing for the whole family.
Hudson Valley Hot-air Balloon Festival
August 30th - September 1st, 2024
Tymor Park, 249 Duncan Rd. Lagrangeville, NY 12540
The Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival is in picturesque Poughquag, New York. Nestled in the heart of the Hudson Valley, this festival offers a weekend of high-flying fun against the backdrop of rolling hills and lush greenery. Attendees can watch as skilled pilots navigate their balloons through the sky or even take a tethered ride for a one-of-a-kind experience. With live entertainment, a craft beer and wine garden, and activities for kids, this festival promises excitement for all ages. What you should know: Don’t miss The Silver Starlets performance, a drone zone obstacle course, sunrise yoga with the balloons, a Balloon walk, food trucks and vendors, a bubble zone for the kids,
Finger Lakes Hot Air Balloon & Music Festival
September 27th - September 29th, 2024
Castel Grisch Winery, 3380 County Route28, Watkins Glen , NY 14891
This will be the first year for this event, and they are working hard to organize the best festival in the Finger Lakes area, featuring top musicians and balloonists from around the country. Follow them on Facebook to get the latest updated information.
New Jersey Festivals
Warren County Farmers' Fair
July 27th - August 3rd, 2024
Warren County Fair Grounds, 877 Uniontown Rd, Phillipsburg NJ 08865
The Warren County Farmers’ Fair & Balloon Festival: Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Warren County, the Warren County Farmers’ Fair & Balloon Festival is a celebration of community, agriculture, and hot air ballooning. Against the backdrop of rolling farmlands and historic charm, this festival offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages.
In addition to the breathtaking sight of colorful balloons dotting the sky, the festival boasts an array of attractions, including live music, carnival rides, and delicious food vendors offering local culinary delights. Families can enjoy a day of fun-filled activities, from petting zoos to craft exhibitions, making it a perfect outing for all.
New Jersey Lottery
They are on Hiatus for 2024 will be returning in 2025
Solberg Airport, 39 Thor Solberg Rd, Whitehouse Station, NJ
The New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning is the largest summertime hot air balloon and music festival in North America and is the premiere family entertainment attraction in New Jersey. It holds the dual distinction of being a recipient of The New Jersey Governor’s Award for Best Special Event and being rated by NJ Monthly as “The #1 thing to do in New Jersey!”
Held annually at Solberg Airport in Readington, NJ, the festival truly has something for everyone! From twice daily mass ascensions of up to 100 particular shape and sport hot air balloons to headlining concerts, non-stop family entertainment, hundreds of crafters and vendors, great food, a new Drone Light Show, a balloon glow, and more, the festival is jam-packed with stuff to do.
In 2024, the hot air balloon festivals in New York & New Jersey promise to ignite the imagination, elevate the spirit, and create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re a seasoned balloon enthusiast or experiencing the magic for the first time, these festivals offer something for everyone. So, pack your picnic basket, gather your loved ones, and prepare to soar high above the scenic landscapes. The skies await, beckoning you to embark on an adventure unlike any other.
Looking for hot air balloon festivals happening in your state in 2024? Check out our guide to find exciting events near you. Get ready to soar high and experience the thrill of these colorful celebrations in the sky. visit http://hotairballoonfestivals.net
