Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival Lifts Off Next Month in Townsend
The 6th Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival lifts off in Townsend on August 17. The event will be held at the Townsend Visitor Center from 4-9 P.M. It’s an incredible show stocked with professional balloonists, and the colorful glow of the hovering objects making a Smoky Mountain sunset even more stunning.
The festival will be held rain or shine, and includes a beer tent, arts and crafts, plenty of food, and activities the whole family will enjoy. Prices are varied, and are highlighted by a VIP Experience where you can have a tethered balloon ride, signature cocktails by the local Company Distilling, commemorative souvenirs, (swag) a catered meal from The Abbey, beer, and live music. The VIP price is $200.
You can buy tickets to the event online for $7; on-site tickets are $10. Children 12 and under are admitted free. If you want a tethered balloon ride, the price is $25, and you will be placed in one of three hourly groups from 4-7 P.M. during the event.
The location of the parking lot is convenient to the event. It’s located adjacent to the festival grounds, providing easy access and shortest distance. The parking area is just past the visitor center building going toward the National Park and is on the right. It will be clearly marked. Parking here will be $20 if buying online and $25 on the day of the event. A majority of the proceeds will benefit the Townsend Volunteer Fire Department.
I can’t think of a better place than the Peaceful Side of the Smokies for the Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival. Townsend is definitely a great destination for those who find the crowds in Gatlinburg too cumbersome. This would be a great time to set your sights high, and see the sky filled with more wonder than ever! More information about the event can be found in the links below.
Tickets: 2024 Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival
Website: https://gsmballoonfest.com/
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