Take Flight at the Adirondack Balloon Festival in Glens Falls
Enchanting visitors for 50 years.
The spectacular sight of hot air balloons taking flight at the Adirondack Hot Air Balloon festival every September near Glens Falls.
Imagine a sky painted with vibrant colors as hot air balloons drift gracefully over the stunning Adirondack landscape. This September, don’t just dream about it—experience it for yourself at the Adirondack Balloon Festival in Glens Falls. The event takes place from September 19 through 22, 2024.
From the breathtaking mass balloon launches to the enchanting Moonglow that lights up the night, this festival offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a photography enthusiast, or looking for a fun family adventure, the Adirondack Balloon Festival is your passport to an unforgettable experience. Visit the festival’s website now to plan your visit, and get ready to be swept off your feet as you watch the Adirondack skies come alive!
From humble beginnings to soaring heights: The story of the Adirondack Balloon Festival.
The Adirondack Balloon Festival was launched in 1973 by a group of local enthusiasts led by Warren County tourism director Walt Grishkot. Their vision was simple: to create an event that would extend the tourism season into the fall and showcase the natural splendor of the Adirondacks.
Colorful hot air balloons ready for take off at Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport in the Adirondacks.
Over the years, this vision has blossomed, and the festival has grown from a small gathering into one of the largest balloon festivals on the East Coast, attracting pilots and spectators from across the country and worldwide.
The event has maintained its community-focused roots, with much of the festival's planning and execution done by a dedicated group of volunteers. This spirit of community involvement has helped the festival maintain its free admission policy, allowing everyone to experience the magic of hot air ballooning without financial barriers.
Accessible to all, the festival draws attendees from across North America.
The festival attracts many attendees, including ballooning enthusiasts, families, photographers, and curious travelers. Pilots from all over the United States and Canada come to participate, eager to showcase their colorful and often uniquely designed balloons. The variety is one of the event's highlights, from traditional teardrop-shaped balloons to unique shapes like animals and cartoon characters.
Hot air balloons in all shapes and sizes.
Visitors range from local Adirondack residents to tourists who travel specifically for the event. Families with children are a common sight, drawn by the spectacle of the balloons and the array of kid-friendly activities. Photography buffs also find the festival a paradise, with the vibrant balloons set against the stunning backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains, making for spectacular photo opportunities.
Since its inception, the Adirondack Balloon Festival has never charged admission. Its a free event, including the parking, and relies on the generous support of sponsors and donors.
Fall in the Adirondacks: A spectacular time for hot air ballooning.
Hot air ballooning in the Adirondacks offers a unique perspective on one of New York State's most beautiful regions. The mountains, lakes, and forests provide an unrivaled backdrop, making the region a favorite destination for balloon pilots. The region's calm winds and scenic landscapes create ideal ballooning conditions, giving safety and spectacular views.
While the Adirondack Balloon Festival is the premier event, the festival doesn’t offer individual rides. However, check their website; they plan to post the contact info for participating pilots who offer rides.
Experience the enchantment of the Adirondack Balloon Festival.
Ready to experience the magic of the Adirondack Balloon Festival for yourself? Mark your calendars and make plans to visit Glens Falls September 19 to 22, 2024. Whether you're a longtime ballooning enthusiast or a first-time visitor, the festival delivers unforgettable sights and experiences for all ages. Don't miss the mass ascensions, the mesmerizing Moonglow, and all the family-friendly activities that make this event a cherished tradition.
Bring your camera, curiosity, and a sense of adventure, and prepare to be amazed as the skies over the Adirondacks come alive with color. (But please leave pets at home.) Visit the Adirondack Balloon Festival website for more information and start planning your trip today.
The spectacular sights and sounds of the Adirondack Balloon Festival in Glens Falls, NY. Photo courtesy Adirondack Balloon Festival.
