The annual Lancaster Balloon Festival takes place every year in mid-September. Don't miss this opportunity to fly away, surrounded by colorful balloons of all shapes and enjoy a bird's-eye view of the rolling hills of Lancaster County's countryside. Surrounded by beautiful nature and Amish farms, Lancaster County is home to one of the largest Amish communities in the U.S. The picturesque farmland attracts many visitors wishing to experience a relaxing way of life in southern Pennsylvania.
Lancaster Hot Air Balloon Festival Events and Activities
The main highlights of the Lancaster Balloon Festival's program are mass ascension and balloon flights, which typically take place at 6:30 am and 6:30 pm on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during the festival. The fantastic sight of dozens of colorful balloons taking off at sunrise and sunset will stay in your memories for a long time. You can also fly in one of the balloons for 30 or 60 minutes, enjoying grand views of farmland, Intercourse, Bird-in-Hand, and Strasburg. Balloon rides and tethered rides are available in the morning and afternoon, Friday through Sunday. Balloon rides must be booked in advance, and prices start at $400.
On the ground, visitors can enjoy exciting Hare & Hound Races, where a flying balloon drops a marker right before landing, and the following balloons have to “race” to land closest to the marker. Guests can also enjoy bounce houses, stage acts, kids' shows, a corn maze, a variety of food trucks, and more. In 2024, the spectator field and launch field will be combined, allowing our guests to watch the balloons and their launches throughout the event.
Mass Hot Air Balloon Glow
Mass Hot Air Balloon Glow is another highly anticipated event in the festival's schedule, which commonly starts at 8 pm on Friday and Saturday. A spectacular show features dozens of balloons illuminating the dark sky with their amazing glow. Other entertainment includes buggy rides in an authentic Amish buggy, performances, and live music from local artists, like Garret Shultz, Tyler Short, Bobby Law, and the Trey Alexander Band. After the balloon glow, there's usually a fireworks display at 9 pm to end your busy day at the festival with a big bang.
Tickets
Festival guests can buy Early Bird Tickets until Jun 30 at the following prices: Thursday Adult Tickets are $6, and $3 for children (ages 12 and under); Friday Adult Tickets are $12, and $6 for children (ages 12 and under); Saturday Adult Tickets are $20 for Adults, and $10 for children (ages 12 and under). Weekend Pass costs $40 for adults and $20 for children (ages 12 and under). Ticket offers for July, August, and September are also available.
