Forget looking up and seeing nothing but skyscrapers–the skies above the Adirondacks will come alive with dozens of hot air balloons this September as the Adirondack Balloon Festival returns for its 53rd year.
On September 17–20, 2026, more than 70 colorful balloons will fill the horizon over Queensbury, NY and the Lake George area for one of the region’s most dazzling displays. This four-day extravaganza remains one of the largest, oldest, and most beloved hot air ballooning events in the United States—second only to Albuquerque’s famous fiesta.
Here’s everything you need to know about this magical, budget-friendly autumn road trip.
A sky-high tradition since the 1970s
What started in 1973 as a modest, 18-balloon demonstration at a local community college has grown into a massive celebration drawing over 100,000 visitors and pilots from across the globe (including Japan, Germany, and Switzerland).
Unlike most massive national festivals, this event has remained 100% volunteer-run and free to the public for over five decades.
It also carries some legendary history:
- Giving Back: festival food stalls are strictly prioritized for local non-profits—like the Flying Farmers, Rotary, and Open Door Ministries—helping raise over $900,000 for local communities to date
- The Hurricane Hugo Miracle: In 1988, after Hurricane Hugo devastated the East Coast and forced a cancellation, organizers unbelievably pulled off a full festival reschedule just one week later, with nearly every pilot returning
What to expect for 2026
While the exact hour-by-hour schedule drops closer to September, festival-goers can count on the beloved multi-day tradition.
Events traditionally kick off on Thursday at Crandall Park with live music and the mesmerizing evening Balloon Moonglow (where anchored balloons inflate and glow against the night sky). Operations then move to Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport for the remainder of the weekend.
Key highlights throughout the 4-day festival include:
- Mass Ascensions: Breathtaking simultaneous launches of 70 to 80+ balloons during peak sunrise and sunset hours
- Walt & Joan’s Mass Ascension: A deeply touching Sunday morning sunrise flight honoring long-time festival founders and organizers Walter and Joan Grishkot
- Festival Grounds: An expansive open-air market featuring a 50+ vendor craft fair, live musical performances, local food vendors, and kids’ activities
Getting there from NYC
Located roughly 3.5 to 4 hours north of New York City, Queensbury makes for a straightforward, highly scenic fall weekend getaway.
- By Bus: Adirondack Trailways offers direct service from Port Authority directly to Glens Falls and Lake George
- By Car: Take I-87 North (the Adirondack Northway) straight to Exit 19
- By Train: Catch Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express or Adirondack line out of Moynihan Train Hall (Penn Station) to the Fort Edward–Glens Falls station. From there, it’s a quick 15-minute rideshare or cab to the grounds
Pro tips before you head north
- 🌤️ Weather Rules Everything: Balloon launches are strictly dependent on wind and weather conditions. Sunrise and sunset offer the calmest winds, so plan your arrival early
- 🚗 Peak Traffic Hours: Heavy congestion builds around the airport during launch windows (5 am–9 am and 3 pm–8 pm). Build extra time into your travel plans
- Parking: Free general parking is available, but premium parking passes typically go on sale on the official festival website ahead of time and sell out fast
- Strict Rules: Leave pets at home. Dogs, drones, smoking, and remote-controlled aircraft are strictly prohibited on the festival grounds
✨ Mark your calendars: September 17–20, 2026. Whether you’re chasing the perfect fall getaway or looking for family fun, this free festival offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to watch dozens of balloons rise over the Adirondack Mountains.