Adirondack Balloon Festival to Celebrate 50th Anniversary in Spectacular Style

The Adirondack Balloon Festival is set to return from Wednesday to Sunday, September 20-24, and it's free. Over 70 balloons from across the United States and beyond will grace the skies during this awesome event.

The Adirondack Balloon Festival Celebrates 50 Years

For the last five years, the dedicated organizing committee has been working on the celebration of the 50th year. They will blend tradition with innovation according to Lake George.com. There are a few locations for this amazing event. It will be headquartered at Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport but will also extend its festivities to Hiland Park Country Club and Glens Falls' Crandall Park.

Here's the schedule for the 2023 Adirondack Balloon Festival:

Wednesday, Sept. 20:The festivities kick off with a Cocktail Reception and Moonglow at Hiland Park Country Club from 5-8 pm. This event is dedicated to honoring balloon pilots and community sponsors. Artist Lynn Benevento will unveil a special 50th-anniversary painting. Tickets are $40 per person.

Thursday, Sept. 21: The day begins with a parade at 4 pm running from downtown Glens Falls to Crandall Park along Glen Street. The opening ceremonies are at 5 pm and include speeches from organizers, a special 50th-anniversary commemorative balloon will be inflated, there will be a launch of 10 balloons and a mesmerizing Moonglow light-up balloon event at Crandall Park. Plus live music.

Friday, Sept. 22:  The festival officially begins at Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport, with gates opening at 3 pm. More than 70 balloons will take flight at 5:30 pm, and the event will feature a Zonta craft fair, exhibitors, kids' activities, and live music.

Saturday, Sept. 23: The festivities continue with gates opening at 4:30 am. A "dawn patrol" sees 5-10 balloons launch around 5:45 am, followed by over 70 more at 7 am Another flight of more than 70 balloons occurs at 5:30 pm, along with the Zonta craft fair, exhibitors, and more. The Moonglow lit balloon event starts at 7:30 pm.

Sunday, Sept. 24: The final day of festivities begins with gates opening at 4:30 am. 90 balloons will take to the skies at 7 am, marking the end of this spectacular event.

For a complete schedule and more information, click HERE.