BUFORD — Colorful hot air balloons, live entertainment and a nighttime laser show will fill the grounds of Lanier Islands Resort during a two-day festival this weekend.
The Hot Air Balloon Festival will be held Friday and Saturday, Sept. 18–19, from 5 to 10 p.m. each evening. Gates open at 5 p.m. at the resort, located at 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway in Buford.
Produced by Balloon Shows USA, the family-friendly event will feature hot air balloon displays, tethered balloon rides, food vendors, craft and retail vendors, music from a DJ and activities in a Kids Zone.
The festival’s nightly finale is scheduled to begin at approximately 9 p.m. Giant illuminated balloons will glow against the night sky as pilots perform synchronized burner displays accompanied by music and a laser light show.
Guests will also have an opportunity to take a tethered ride in a hot air balloon. Unlike a traditional balloon flight, the balloon remains secured to the ground while rising into the air and returning to the same location. Rides cost $35 per person and are available in limited quantities.
Balloon inflation, tethered rides and other balloon activities are dependent on wind and weather conditions.
Single-day general admission is $20 for adults ages 18 and older and $10 for children ages 6–17. Children 5 and younger are admitted free.
VIP admission is $45 for adults and $30 for children. VIP tickets include unlimited snacks and access to designated portable restrooms. Discounted admission is available to military personnel and first responders with valid identification.
A portion of the festival’s proceeds will benefit local special-needs initiatives and the Georgia Mountain Food Bank.
Tickets and additional information are available at www.BalloonShows.com.
