There is something magical about watching a brilliantly colored hot air balloon float quietly past the clouds. To see one — or more — glowing in the night sky, is extraordinary. East Tennesseans can see this spectacle up close thanks to two area hot air balloon festivals. The Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival and the Monroe Life Balloon Festival take place each year in August.
If you haven’t been yet, this is your sign to go! Not only will you be able to witness these massive balloons inflating, but you also could take a tethered — or untethered — ride. Keep in mind, hot air balloons are quite loud, and you can feel the heat from the burner while riding in the basket. A balloon ride may not be suitable for all children. If you plan to skip a ride, you’re in luck. Both festivals offer more than just hot air balloons. There are special activities for children, food trucks, music and more. Whether you decide to keep your feet on the ground or go up, up and away, it’s a special experience worth sharing with your family!
Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival
Saturday, August 16th
4:00pm-9:00pm
Townsend Visitor Center
7906 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway
Townsend, TN 37882
Tickets: $10.00-$200.00, kids 12 and under are free, tethered rides are $25.00. Get ready to see the Smokies glow! Watch the balloons light up the night sky…you can even go on a tethered ride. There will be a children’s area with activities including crafts, games, and more. Vendors will be offering unique homemade items and food trucks will also be on hand. Live music will be the backdrop to an amazing sunset and sky filled with hot air balloons!
Monroe Life Balloon Festival
Saturday, August 30th & Sunday, August 31st
4:00pm-10:00pm
Monroe County Airport
576 TN-360
Madisonville, TN 37354
Tickets: $10.00 admission, kids 4 and under are free, tethered rides are $20.00. This marks the 12th year of the biggest balloon festival in our region. This year there is a new, larger location! The event will now be held at the Monroe County Airport. Like previous years, there will be a Kids’ Zone complete with inflatables. Each night will end with a balloon glow, as the balloons light up in time to music, creating a beautiful display. Several food trucks will be on hand as well as craft and vendor booths.
