2026 Hot Air Balloon Festival

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

Get ready for one of the most vibrant, high-energy events of the year at Lanier Islands Resort. The Hot Air Balloon Festival fills the skies with color, offering live entertainment and one-of-a-kind experiences for all ages - all while supporting our community. One of the most anticipated hot air balloon festivals in Georgia, this is an event you won't want to miss.

Dates: September 18–19, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Gates Open: 5:00 PM

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This image shows a cozy hotel room with two beds, a wooden dresser, a sitting chair, and a view of green outdoor trees through glass doors.

A peaceful backyard with chairs, a stone fire pit, and a lush green lawn surrounded by tall trees under a partly cloudy sky.

A family enjoys relaxing together on a bedroom bed with natural light from the windows and cozy decor including lamps and a teddy bear.

Balloon Festival Getaway

Make a weekend of it. Enjoy a getaway during one of the best North Georgia Hot Air Balloon Festivals with overnight accommodations and a $50 food & beverage credit per night. Available with any room type.

*Festival tickets not included.

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Tickets + Pricing

General Admission (single day)
• Adults: $20
• Children: $10
• Kids Under 5: FREE

VIP Admission (includes unlimited snacks and VIP restrooms)
• Adults: $45
• Children (17 and under): $30

Military / First Responder
• Discounted admission available (ID is required)

Get Tickets

**Some fees may apply; admission tickets do NOT include balloon rides

What To Expect

Hot air balloons float during sunset with patriotic American flag design on the main balloon.

Hot Air Balloons & Rides

Watch as dozens of vibrant hot air balloons fill the sky. Be a part of the action with tethered balloon rides (purchase necessary).

*limited availability and weather dependent

Crowd with raised hands and smartphones at sunset during an outdoor event or concert.

Live Entertainment

A high-energy atmosphere all evening with DJs and live music performances.

Shop, Eat & Explore

Browse the unique craft and retail vendors during the event, and stop by our concessions for festival-style food and drinks.

Kids Zone

Enjoy family-friendly games, rides, and other activities.

People prepare hot air balloons for a nighttime launch at a festival or event with colorful balloons and spectators.

Nightly Grand Finale

Around 9 PM, watch the hot air balloons glow and a laser light show dance to music with coordinated balloon burns.

Important Information
- Tickets are limited and expected to sell out - buying tickets in advance is recommended
- Free general parking available
- NO coolers or outside food/beverages
- Balloon activity is weather-dependent
- Fair Weather Guarantee: tickets may be used the next day or at a future affiliated event if balloons cannot launch
- Balloon inflation will take place as soon as the winds are low enough to be safe
- General admission tickets do NOT include the tethered balloon rides
- Volunteers are needed - fill out a form here
Terms & Conditions: Overnight Stay

Promotional rates are valid for reservations made for the Balloon Festival stay and completed during the specified stay window. Offer valid for September 18 and/or 19 with any room type, based on availability. Package includes a $50 food & beverage credit per night, applied on a per-night basis. Festival tickets are not included and must be purchased separately. Rates do not include taxes, gratuity, or daily resort fee. Additional nights outside of the promotional stay dates will be charged at the best available rate. Must reference promotional code BALLOON-FEST at the time of booking to receive the offer. Promotion cannot be combined with any other offer, promotion, or prior reservation. Package is subject to availability and blackout dates may apply. Refunds will not be issued for any unused portion of the package. Credit is valid for use on Lanier Islands Resort-operated outlets only and cannot be applied toward room rate, resort fee, or taxes.