The Big List of 2023 Hot Air Balloon Festivals for New York State

Do you love going to Hot Air Balloon Festivals? New York State is home to many of them. Have you ever gone up in a hot air balloon? After the initial awkwardness of getting into the basket, the ride is pretty cool and oddly quiet.

Here are a few of the many Hot Air Balloon Festivals that you can check out during 2023 across New York State. If you know of one (or more) that should be added to the list, let me know! I would love to add it.

Where are all the Hot Air Balloon Festivals in New York State?

The festivals truly are located all across the state. If you are willing to cross state lines, there are also festivals in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

• June 2-4, 2023, Cambridge Valley Balloon Festival, Cambridge, NY.
• July 20-22, 2023 Great Wellsville Balloon Rally, Island Park, Wellsville NY
• August 4-7, 2023 Spiedie Fest & Balloon Rally, Binghamton, NY
• September 1-3, 2023 Hudson Valley Hot Air Balloon Festival, Tymor Park, Unionvalle NY
• September 21-24, 2023 Adirondack Balloon Festival, The Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport, Queensbury, NY

What happens at Hot Air Balloon Festivals? Or at least the ones I've been to?

What happens at Hot Air Balloon Festivals? Is it just about getting up early to see the balloons fill and take off? 

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In some ways, getting up early is a great part of it. The balloons will start to be inflated and tethered about an hour before sunrise. If you can be there in the morning, it is a magical time.

READ MORE: Are Helium Balloons Illegal in NYS? 

Throughout the day, there will be balloons that are inflated and tethered, which will allow (for a fee) people to get into the basket and possibly launch into the air.

Most festivals also have live music, things for the kids and the adults to do, and food trucks. If you can be there at the evening or not quite sunset launches those are beautiful as well, plus there are usually bonfires, along with things like hot chocolate and smores.