TOWNSEND, Tenn. — Your favorite summer sendoff event is back. The annual Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival will return to East Tennessee on Aug. 17. Festivities will occur from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Townsend Visitor Center.
This rain-or-shine event will feature a stunning balloon glow, where professional balloonists will light up the evening sky against the backdrop of a breathtaking Smoky Mountain sunset, according to a release from the Greater Smokies Region.
In addition to the main event, this year's festivities will include arts and crafts, a beer tent, food trucks and many family-friendly activities.
“The Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival is an amazing way to experience the beauty of the Smokies," Kim Mitchell, director of tourism for the Blount Partnership, said. "We encourage everyone to make a trip out of it and enjoy all that our region has to offer."
Entry tickets will be sold for $7 in advance and $10 at the gate for adults 13 and up. Tickets for tethered balloon rides will also be sold for $25.
Attendees also have the opportunity to purchase tickets for the V.I.P. Lift Off experience, which kicks off an hour before 4 p.m. general admission. This experience offers benefits like commemorative swag, a catered meal, tented seating, live music and more.
Parking is available by prepaid reservation for $20 and comes with two admission tickets.
All proceeds earned will go towards the Townsend Volunteer Fire Department and Townsend Elementary School, according to the release.
For more information on this year's Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival, visit gsmballoonfest.com.
