Hot Air Balloon Festival at Lanier Islands Resort

The Hot Air Balloon Festival takes flight Sept. 18 and 19 along the scenic shores of Lake Lanier. Open from 5-10 p.m. each evening, the Balloon Shows USA-produced event will feature an inspiring display of hot air balloons, tethered balloon rides, live music and DJ entertainment, family-friendly activities for little ones in the Kids’ Zone, opportunities to shop unique craft and retail vendors, a wide variety of festival food and a nightly grand finale that begins around 9 p.m. with a laser light show set to music with coordinated balloon burns.

For guests looking to turn the festival into a full lakeside getaway, Lanier Islands Resort is offering a Balloon Festival Getaway package featuring overnight accommodations and a $50 food & beverage credit per night (note: package does not include festival tickets). Festival guests are encouraged to extend their stay and enjoy everything the resort has to offer, including its multiple dining options, boating, golf courses, pickleball courts, spa and indoor entertainment at Game Changer.

Single-day tickets for the Hot Air Balloon Festival are $20 for adults (18+) and $10 for children (6-17). Kids 5 and under will be admitted for free.

VIP tickets – which include free unlimited snacks and access to VIP portable bathrooms – are $45 for adults and $30 for children. Military members and first responders receive discounted admission with valid ID.

Tethered balloon rides are $35/person.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit local special needs initiatives and the Georgia Mountain Food Bank.