5 Must-See Magnificent Balloon Festivals
Scattered throughout the United States each year are majestic hot air balloons filling the skies for celebrated balloon festivals. Hot air balloon festivals are the perfect weekend getaway for families or roadtrip-loving couples to enjoy scenic locations while relaxing to the backdrop of breathtakingly beautiful balloons in flight. Add to your bucket list to attend one of these 5 must-see magnificent balloon festivals for amazing memories and incredible photographs!
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, held annually in Albuquerque, New Mexico with over 600 magnificent balloons decorating the skyline of a 360 acre park, has become known as the most photographed event in the world. 100 acres of grass and booths will be filled with balloons and concessions selling everything from traditional New Mexican food to balloon memorabilia. Each year balloon teams from around the world with over 1000 pilots participate in much anticipated events in October with balloons of every shape and unforgettable designs. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta reins king as the world's most colorful and spectacular festival of flying with over 500,000 people annually in attendance!
The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race
The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race is held on the grounds of the beautiful and historic Rosalie Mansion, on bluffs high above the Mississippi River. Enjoy fall breezes flowing across the Mighty Mississippi River with the sight of over 50 hot air balloons drifting overhead. The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race offers live, world-class musical entertainment, sweet and savory southern culinary delights plus an Oktoberfest style bier-garden, called Blufftoberfest, featuring a variety of regional craft beers.
Adirondack Balloon Festival
The Adirondack Balloon Festival, now in its 45th year, is a not-for-profit organization run by dedicated volunteers and supporters and remains open to the public free of charge. The Adirondack Balloon Festival draws balloonists from across the United States and an upwards of 150,000 attendees over their four day event. Having been named one of the Top 100 events in North America, the festival has received accolades from the Weather Channel, Food Network and media coverage including Associated Press articles as well as New York Times.
Plano Balloon Festival
For the past 30 years, balloon enthusiasts attend the Plano Balloon Festival to enjoy the sight of colorful balloons in the nice Texas weather. With more than 90,000 in attendance, Plano Balloon Festival has something festive for all attendees, even the smallest ones with a Kid's Fun Zone and a stage showcasing local community acts.
Owl-O-Ween Hot Air Balloon Festival
Atlanta's Hot Air Balloon Festival, Owl-O-Ween Hot Air Balloon Festival is full of festive activities and Atlanta's largest costume party! Held on two nights, October 27th and October 28th, Owl-O-Ween features: trick-or-treating (at the balloons), tethered balloon rides, live entertainment, balloon glows, interactive kid zone, costume showdowns, roving performers, artist exhibits, delicious food and outstanding drinks. The 5th Owl-O-Ween Hot Air Balloon Festival will surely be an event to remember!
{Blog by: Jenny Cox Holman}
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