TOWNSEND, Tenn. — People in Townsend may spot some bright, floating balloons floating through the sky on Saturday. It's part of the Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival.
Some of the proceeds of the event will go to Townsend Elementary School and the Townsend Volunteer Fire Department, organizers said online. It will also be the sixth annual event featuring crafters demonstrating and selling their artwork, a food truck court, a beer tent and family-friendly activities.
People will also be able to buy a $25 ticket to take a tethered ride in a balloon. Anyone who wants to ride in a balloon should buy tickets online, ahead of time. General admission tickets cost $10 and do not include a balloon ride. Rides are around 10 minutes long and depend on the weather. Balloons go around 30 feet up into the area.
There will also be a laser light show lasting around 30 minutes during the later portion of the festival, and depending on the weather, a balloon glow.
The festival grounds are rugged, organizers warned, and may be difficult to maneuver. Pets are also allowed but must be leashed and pet owners must bring bags to clean up after them.