Cambridge Valley Balloon Festival 2024 in New York State

Cambridge Valley Balloon Festival takes place annually in early June at the Cambridge Central School on Route 22. In addition to the weather-permitting launches of hot air balloons, a myriad of activities amuse the crowds during the festival. Community businesses host an impressive fireworks display at the Cambridge Guest Home Park on South Union Street.

Cambridge Valley Balloon Festival Events and Entertainment

Cambridge Valley Balloon Festival features about 10 hot air balloons. The launches take place on Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 pm and on Saturday and Sunday mornings at 5:30 am. Launches can be canceled due to inclement weather or high winds. Rain or shine, most events take place regardless of weather.

Other highlights of the festival include official opening ceremonies at Cambridge Central School, a Block Part, Pilots Pulled Pork BBQ at Railroad Park on Broad Street, carnival rides, Buffalo Sunrise Artisan Market, and the evening Moon Glow. One of the festival's most popular events, the Moon Glow features tethered balloons, illuminated inside and synchronized to music.

Local charities and community groups actively participate in the festival and organize many events, like the Lions Clubs Balloon Festival Car Show at St. Patrick’s Church. The public can also enjoy food vendors and a craft fair as well as a meet-and-greet with pilots during the Pilots Breakfast at the American Legion on Rt 22 in Cambridge.

Tickets

Tethered rides are priced at $20 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the festival beginning Friday evening at 5 pm. Saturday is wristband day at the carnival, where visitors can buy a wristband for $25 and enjoy unlimited rides from 1 pm to 9 pm. Also, Pilots Pulled Pork BBQ tickets cost $15. Other festival events are free to attend.

Donations towards the festival are always welcome, because this is how the organizers are able to make most of the events free for visitors.