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Best U.S. Hot Air Balloon Festivals for Families

by Angelique Platas

Apr 11, 2018

© Emilysfolio | Dreamstime.com

Destinations / North America

Balloons over Mt. Vernon, Ill.: May 18–19

Introduce the kids to their newfound love of aviation from Mt. Vernon Outland Airport, where the United Way Balloon Glow begins. Watch while pilots inflate their balloons and take off or hop on for a ride. Fill up with Wilkey’s pancake breakfast after and learn all about the process of the hot air balloons and airplanes.

Albuquerque International Balloon Festival. Floating, flying.

© Centrill | Dreamstime.com

Alabama Jubilee in Decatur, Ala.: May 26–27

Spend Memorial Day Weekend with the family in Decatur, Ala., watching hot air balloons take flight amid a host of events. The Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic brings out participants and onlookers from around the area for tractor shows, arts and crafts, live music, parades, a hare and hound balloon race and, inexplicably, a figure skating exhibition — all leading up to the grand jubilee.

Balloons Over Angel Fire in Angel Fire, N.M.: June 15–17

Grab your cameras and head to the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway in Northern New Mexico for the annual Balloons Over Angel Fire event. Watch as vibrant balloons take off into the sky with the stunning New Mexico landscape as the backdrop.

Balloons take to the air at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico. Helium, north.

© Americanspirit | Dreamstime.com

Adirondack Balloon Festival in Queensbury, N.Y.: Sept 20–23

View the changing leaves and epic fall beauty of the Adirondacks in New York during the 46th annual Balloon Festival. Check out local crafts, photo competitions and community events before the balloons take flight over the sprawling Queensbury landscape.

Albuquerque International Balloon Festival in Albuquerque, N.M.: Oct. 6–14

What would a list of hot air balloon festivals be without the Albuquerque International Balloon Festival, Oct. 6–14? The annual event boasts unbeatable views of the stunningly beautiful Albuquerque terrain and more special events than you’ll have time for.

Look for a fall hot-air balloon festival in your area using this list. Check out local festivals or take a family road trip to the nearest one this season.

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