• Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival FAQ's

  • How much does a balloon flight cost? How much does a balloon flight cost?

    THERE ARE THREE DIFFERENT TYPES OF HOT-AIR BALLOON FLIGHT OPTIONS:

    1) FULL FLIGHT MORNING (6:30AM - Gates Open at 5:30AM) - $350 per person

    2) FULL FLIGHT EVENING (5:30PM - Gates Open at 2:30PM) - $350 per person

    3) TETHERED RIDE - $30 per person

    Tethered rides sold in cash the day of. No reservations required.

    ​​FULL HOT-AIR BALLOON FLIGHT INFORMATION:

    A typical balloon adventure is approximately three hours from set-up through pack-up with the actual flight lasting up to a 45 minute long experience. You will also enjoy a champagne toast with your pilot and crew and then be returned to the launch site in your balloon’s chase vehicle. Signing up for a balloon flight does not guarantee you will fly, as flights are completely dependent on wind and weather conditions. ALL BALLOONS TAKE OFF AT THE DISCRETION OF THE PILOT.

    For a full flight, a $75 per person, non-refundable deposit will be charged at the time of registration. The balance due should be paid (CASH ONLY) to the pilot.  You will need to purchase admission tickets to enter the festival in addition to your flight purchase.  You must show ID and all passengers will need to sign a Liability Waiver when you check-in at The Balloon Ride Booth.  All sales are final. No refunds, transfers or exchanges, no exceptions.

    All passengers must be tall enough to see over the side of the basket (approximately 48-inches). Basket size varies from balloon-to-balloon; therefore riders may not be able to ride together. Passengers should dress in comfortable clothing and closed-toe footwear. The temperature might vary only a couple of degrees from the ground temperature.

    In the past, balloon rides have been used for engagements, weddings, client rewards, birthday/graduation gifts and more. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

    Hot-air balloons may not inflate or fly if wind and or weather conditions do not allow.  The slightest amount of wind makes it dangerous for inflation of a hot-air balloon and should this happen, refunds for flight deposits will be issued only to those that have shown for check-in for their flight and will be issued back to the card it was purchased on.   If you do not show, regardless of wind and weather conditions, you waive your deposit.

     

    TETHERED HOT-AIR BALLOON FLIGHT INFORMATION: 

    • Tethered Rides: $30 Per Person (CASH ONLY). No reservations required.  Sold day of.  

    A tether ride is where a balloon is secured and anchored to the ground via a rope, often tied to vehicles.  This hot-air balloon ride experience is typically not more than 5 minutes and will give you a small experience of a balloon flight and 360 degree sensation a full flight has.  The balloon lifts off the ground to the limit of the rope and then slowly descends.  The height of the flight is usually a height of 50-100ft. Tethered Rides are available for $30 per person (CASH ONLY) on site. 

    For a tethered ride you will pay cash in person at the festival.  You will need to purchase admission tickets to enter the festival in addition to your flight purchase.

    For a tethered balloon ride, you DO NOT need to show ID nor do you need to fill out a Liability Waiver.   All sales are final. No refunds, transfers or exchanges, no exceptions.

    All passengers must be tall enough to see over the side of the basket (approximately 48-inches). Basket size varies from balloon-to-balloon; therefore riders may not be able to ride together. Passengers should dress in comfortable clothing and closed-toe footwear. The temperature might vary only a couple of degrees from the ground temperature.

    In the past, balloon rides have been used for engagements, weddings, client rewards, birthday/graduation gifts and more. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

    Hot-air balloons may not inflate or fly if wind and or weather conditions do not allow.  The slightest amount of wind makes it dangerous for inflation of a hot-air balloon and should this happen refunds for flight deposits will be issued back to the card it was purchased on. 

  • Is there a cost to attend the balloon festival? Is there a cost to attend the balloon festival?

    GENERAL ADMISSION (required donation):

    $23.95 PER PERSON* for one evening admission on either Friday, Saturday OR Sunday - Required Donation

    $13.95 PER PERSON* for one morning admission on either Saturday OR Sunday - Required Donation 

    $37.95 PER PERSON* for ALL WEEKEND ACCESS PASS - admission to the festival for all 2023 dates and times, September 1, 2, AND 3, morning and evening - Required Donation.

     

    CHILDREN ADMISSION:

    Admission to the festival for children under age 3 is FREE. 

     

     

    TICKETS WILL ONLY BE SOLD ONLINE IN ADVANCE. TICKETS WILL NOT BE SOLD AT THE GATE.

     

    *Convenience/processing fees, will be added at the time of checkout

     

    Please print or bring your ticket on a device to be scanned. One barcode will scan for multiple entries if purchased. Need to split among attendees arriving separately? Simply print multiple copies.

     

    PARKING:

     

    FOR MORNING (5:30-9AM) & EVENING FESTIVAL PARKING (2:30-8:30 PM) - PARKING IS FREE AND LOCATED AT: Tymor Park, 249 Duncan Rd, Lagrangeville, NY 12540.

    For Google map driving directions to Tymor Park, 249 Duncan Rd, Lagrangeville, NY 12540, CLICK HERE

     

    HANDICAPPED PARKING ONLY: Tymor Park, 249 Duncan Rd, Lagrangeville, NY 12540. 

    IMPORTANT NOTE: You MUST have handicapped license plates OR a handicapped placard issued to a passenger in the vehicle.  If your handicapped placard does not match the identification of a passenger then we will not accommodate the vehicle. This is heavily enforced - violators will be ticketed and towed. No exceptions, as space is limited and reserved for those that need this accommodation.

     

    Parking is FREE, but limited.  We will notify ticket holders of any updates and changes via email.

     

    Parking lots open at 5AM for morning and 2PM for afternoon/evening.

     

    Any changes to the event schedule will be posted on our Facebook and Instagram pages, as well as www.balloonfesthv.com.

     

    HOT-AIR BALLOON RIDES:

    Full Hot-Air Balloon Flights:

    $350.00 PER PERSON - Evening Flight 

    $350.00 PER PERSON - Morning Flight 

     

    Reservations strongly recommended as flights are likely to sellout in advance.

     

    Full Hot-Air Balloon Flights can be up to a 45 minute long experience. To book a flight at the festival, visit www.balloonfesthv.com.

     

    Tethered Hot-Air Balloon Flights:

    $30.00 PER PERSON - Tethered hot-air balloon rides will be offered at the festival when wind and weather conditions allow. Rides will be sold on-site only (CASH ONLY) and not in advance. The balloon is tethered to the ground and ascends 50-75ft in the air.

     

    REFUND POLICY:

    All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges. The event is rain or shine. Balloons may not inflate or fly if weather conditions are not ideal - refunds will NOT be issued if balloons do not inflate. You're donating to maintain the integrity of the non-profit organizations behind the festival.

    CANCELLATION POLICY:

    Event is rain or shine. ALL BALLOONS TAKE-OFF AT THE SOLE DISCRETION OF THE PILOT. Sometimes, due to impending weather, wind, or other conditions, balloons will launch early, late or not at all. Please plan to arrive roughly 30 minutes or more prior to the scheduled launch time to ensure you see the balloon inflate and rise. Up-to-the-minute info about launch times and delays, will be available via the Chamber's Facebook and Twitter postings throughout the festival. All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges.  All Hot-Air Balloon launches are wind and weather permitting. If wind and weather conditions are not ideal and safe for ballooning the pilot(s) will not inflate or fly - refunds will not be issued if you do not see balloons inflate or fly.

     

    By making a donation you agree to all of the above terms and conditions and understand refunds and exchanges will not be issued under any circumstances.

     

     

    YOUR DONATION FOR A RESERVATION PER PERSON IS GOOD FOR ONE PERSON ADMISSION TO ATTEND THE HUDSON VALLEY HOT-AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL AT TYMOR PARK FOR THE DATE AND TIME OF YOUR RESERVATION.

  • What time do the balloons launch? What time do the balloons launch?

    Scheduled takeoffs are:

    • Friday - 5:30PM 
    • Saturday - 6:30AM & 5:30PM
    • Sunday - 6:30AM & 5:30PM

    Times may vary based on wind & weather conditions and may not happen at all if conditions do not allow.

     

    The first takeoff during the morning launches is slated for approximately 6:30 AM. All evening launches are scheduled for approximately 5:30 PM.

     

    Hot-Air Balloon Illumination Moon Glow will begin after dark.  

     

    Safety is our top priority. All launches are wind and weather dependent. For more information on balloon flight times and safety please wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_air_ballooning 

     

    NOTE: With any amount of wind, hot-air balloons will likely not inflate and or fly.   

  •  Why are the launches scheduled for 6:30 AM and 5:30 PM? Why are the launches scheduled for 6:30 AM and 5:30 PM?

    To avoid thermal activity (wind activated by the sun) during the day, Hot-Air Balloons launch at sunrise and approximately two hours before sunset as a safety precaution. All times are approximate as current weather conditions must be taken into consideration for your safety. For more information on industry standards and safe hot air balloon practices, check out the flight times section here: wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_air_ballooning

  • Why wouldn’t a launch happen? Why wouldn’t a launch happen?

    ALL BALLOONS TAKE OFF AT THE SOLE DISCRETION OF THE PILOT. Sometimes, due to impending weather, wind, or other conditions, balloons will launch early, late or not at all. Balloon launches are scheduled to take off at specific times, however the time may vary based on the wind and weather conditions and balloons may not inflate or fly at all if conditions are not optimal.  

    Please plan to arrive an hour prior to the scheduled launch time to ensure you see the balloons inflate and rise. Allow extra time for traffic. Up-to-the-minute information about launch times, including delays will be available via the Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival Social media postings throughout the festival.

    For more information on industry standards and safe hot-air balloon practices, check out: wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_air_ballooning

  • FREE parking is available. FREE parking is available.

    FREE parking is available but is limited.  You may be parking in a field. Wear closed toed shoes and footwear you don't mind getting dirty! Please follow posted signs and/or volunteer instructions to find parking. Handicapped parking is available, but is also limited.  Follow the signs accordingly. Please have your state issued disabled parking permit visible. A parking attendant is on duty to provide assistance.  Should handicapped parking fill up then the overflow will park in general parking with drop-offs allowed.  

  • Are there any prohibited items? Are there any prohibited items?

    Our festival strives to produce a fun and safe family event. In so doing, we must enforce prohibited items and behaviors. Listed below are some of the common prohibited items and behavior, but does not limit itself to the following:

    • Pets are not allowed (All service dogs must have PROOF of rabies vaccination to enter the grounds)  Not sure if your animal qualifies as as service animal, then check HERE
    • Bicycles, scooters, skateboards, rollerblades, heelies, segways, and golf carts, are not allowed
    • No overnight parking
    • No picnicking in parking lots.
    • No Camping
    • No tents allowed
    • No alcohol
    • No Drones
    • No firearms, knives and weapons of any kind
    • Shirts and shoes are required at all times
  •  No outside food and beverages allowed No outside food and beverages allowed

    Outside food and beverages will not be allowed. There will be plenty of food trucks, food and retail vendors, concessions, and more available for purchase! Bags are subject to search.

  • How to become a vendor How to become a vendor

    To apply to become a vendor for the festival, you must complete and submit an application. You can find the forms HERE.

  • When will I see balloons fly? When will I see balloons fly?

    While the Hot Air Balloon Festival is a 3-day event Hot-Air Balloon take offs are at scheduled times* only. Please be sure to check the festival schedule for when these events will happen.  For more information on balloon flight times and safety please wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_air_ballooning

    Please be sure to review our schedule so that you can best plan your visit and not miss out on seeing our amazing balloons.

    * Balloon launches are at the sole discretion of their pilots and are contingent upon many weather permitting conditions, which is why their times are also approximate. 

  • No pets are allowed at the festival No pets are allowed at the festival

    No pets are allowed at the festival at any time.

    Service dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for persons with disabilities will be admitted. All service dogs must have PROOF of rabies vaccination to enter the grounds. Do Not Leave Your Dog In The Car. Any dog left in a vehicle will be turned over to the local authorities/ dog warden at the expense of the owner. 

  • Chairs and blankets allowed Chairs and blankets allowed

    Feel free to bring folding chairs and blankets, just please be courteous to the balloonists and other visitors.

  • What to wear to the festival What to wear to the festival

    Tymor park is mostly on grass, so it might be muddy and/or dusty. We suggest all visitors should dress appropriately including wearing sturdy, closed-toe footwear and clothes you won’t mind getting dirty. The use of bug and tick repellent and sunscreen is STRONGLY recommended.

  • Where are the balloons before the launch? Where are the balloons before the launch?

    Between launches, the balloons are often either in transit back to the original launch site from their previous launch, or are being fueled, prepared and maintained by the balloonist.  Because of this, when the balloons are not being prepared for a launch they are not visible to the public.

  • What is a tether or tethered ride? What is a tether or tethered ride?

    A tether ride is where a balloon is secured to the ground via rope, often tied to vehicles that lasts not more than 5 minutes. The balloon then lifts off the ground to the limit of the rope and then slowly descends. Tether Rides are available for $30 per person (CASH ONLY) onsite.

  • Can I ride in a balloon? Can I ride in a balloon?

    Yes! A limited number of balloon rides are available for a fee. All passengers must be tall enough to see over the side of the basket (approximately 48-inches). Basket size varies from balloon-to-balloon; therefore riders may not be able to ride together. Passengers should dress in comfortable clothing and closed-toe footwear. The temperature might vary only a couple of degrees from the ground temperature. In the past, balloon rides have been used for engagements, weddings, client rewards, birthday/graduation gifts and more. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience! There is a weight limit in a balloon basket and for safety reasons each rider must be under 250lbs.

    For a full flight which can last up to 45 minutes from setup to pack up, you must make a reservation in advance and can do so HERE.

    Tether Rides will also be available for $30 per person - CASH ONLY the day of the festival. 

    Keep in mind that balloon may not fly due to wind and weather conditions.

  • If we book a flight, how long is a full hot air balloon flight? If we book a flight, how long is a full hot air balloon flight?

    A typical balloon adventure is approximately three hours from set-up through pack-up with the actual flight lasting up to 45 minutes. You will also enjoy a champagne toast with your pilot and crew and then be returned to the launch site in your balloon’s chase vehicle. Signing up for a balloon flight does not guarantee you will fly, as flights are completely dependent on weather. ALL BALLOONS TAKE OFF AT THE DISCRETION OF THE PILOT.

  • Where and when to check-in for your ride? Where and when to check-in for your ride?

    ALL passengers MUST check-in at the Balloon Ride Booth with ID, pay the balance due (CASH ONLY) and sign the liability waiver. Please plan to arrive roughly an hour prior to the scheduled launch time to ensure you see the balloon inflate and rise. Traffic may cause significant delays, please plan accordingly. Refunds will NOT be issued for missed rides due to late arrival.

  • What to do if your launch doesn't happen? What to do if your launch doesn't happen?

    If your launch is cancelled for any reason, if there is room at a later launch, you will be asked to try and reschedule at check-in the day of the canceled launch. If, at the end of the weekend, NONE of the launches were successful, the deposit will be refunded.

  • What is a hot-air balloon illumination moon glow or balloon glow? What is a hot-air balloon illumination moon glow or balloon glow?

    The moon glow will be a stationary display on Friday and Saturday nights. After dark, weather and wind permitting, a few balloons will fire their burners.  When the burners are fired, it makes the balloon glow. Check out our About Us page for pictures of a Moon Glow. 

  • Where do the balloons go? Where do the balloons go?

    Wind determines a balloon’s direction. Balloons simply float with the wind. The pilot can control the balloon’s altitude to find a wind going in the desired direction, but you cannot fly upwind or crosswind.​

  • Where will the balloon land? Where will the balloon land?

    Balloons simply float with the wind. Preflight planning ensures the pilot knows which way the balloon will be traveling, and the pilot makes sure there are plenty of suitable landing sites downwind.

  •  If we fly, how do we get back to the launch site/our car? If we fly, how do we get back to the launch site/our car?

    A chase crew follows along in a van or truck. The chase crew is in radio contact with the pilot, so they can be there when the balloon lands (or soon afterward). You will be returned to the launch site in your balloon’s chase vehicle.

  • Will the balloons float back to the launch site? Will the balloons float back to the launch site?

    Not typically. Balloons float with the wind, so cannot easily change direction.  It is rare that balloons land back at the original launch location, but it does happen.  Balloon chase vehicles and balloon crew will follow the hot-air balloon to it's final landing site. 

  •  In case of inclement weather, how will I know if balloons are launching? In case of inclement weather, how will I know if balloons are launching?

    As soon as any decision is made on the cancellation of balloon launches, information will be immediately posted to the Balloon Festival website as well as on our Social media pages. ALL DECISIONS TO CANCEL OR PROCEED WITH BALLOON LAUNCHES ARE SOLELY THOSE OF THE PILOTS. Remember, numerous factors contribute to unsafe conditions for ballooning including rain, wind, lightning, etc. For more information on standards and safety for hot-air balloons including launch times, please visit: wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_air_ballooning

  • I got a great photo of the balloons; do you want to see it? I got a great photo of the balloons; do you want to see it?

    You bet we do! Please post it to our any of our social pages and share it with #BalloonFestHV.

  • Are there hotels nearby? Are there hotels nearby?

    Yes! We recommend visiting the Chamber’s Business Directory for a complete list of local hotels and motels. We suggest booking your room in advance!

  • Are there restaurants nearby? Are there restaurants nearby?

    Yes! Visit the Chamber’s Business Directory for a complete list of local restaurants, cafés, and diners. The Hudson Valley is also home to The Culinary Institute of America and you will find some of the finest cuisine in the world served here. 

  • Are there other things to do nearby? Are there other things to do nearby?

    Yes! Visit our partner, Dutchess Tourism, Inc. or check out the Chamber’s Community Calendar for a list of local attractions and happenings.

  • I have a specific question, who should I contact? I have a specific question, who should I contact?

    For any and all questions, you may contact the Chamber by emailing Frontdesk@dcrcoc.org, by calling 845.474.1700 x 1000,  or call the Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival Hot-line powered by Central Hudson Gas & Electric at (845) 454-1701.  Our social media accounts will be updated regularly. Feel free to post your questions there, so others can benefit from the answer too. During the festival we encourage you to share posts with #BalloonFestHV.

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  • Questions? Call the Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival Hot-Line

    (845) 454-1701

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    ¿Preguntas en español? El correo electrónico está en office@dcrcoc.org

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