52°
In total, more than 75 balloon takeoffs are scheduled during the weekend. All launches are open to the public and complimentary to attend, and many feature community gatherings, food and drink and much more. The complete list of launch sites and times can be found here.
The Festival begins with a dozen evening launches scattered throughout Dutchess County at 6 p.m. on Friday, July 4. At 6 a.m. on Saturday, July 5, all balloons in town will dot the sky over the Hudson River, taking off from the docks of the Hudson River Rowing Association. This morning event provides tremendous photographic opportunities and the Walkway Over the Hudson will be open early for guests seeking a unique, elevated vantage point.
Another round of 6 p.m. departures will take place Saturday evening at various sites before a second 6 a.m. mass launch at the Hudson River Rowing Association Boathouse on Sunday, July 6 brings the Balloon Festival to a close.
All scheduled events are weather permitting with both forecast rain and wind liable to alter launch schedules. Status of launches is available here.
In addition to the standard 6 p.m. launches, a special Moon Glow launch is scheduled for Saturday, July 5 at the Vassar Alumnae House. This launch takes place after dark and will feature a specially treated balloon shining brightly against the night sky as it rises.
For a fee, attendees can take their festival experience to new heights by actually riding alongside a trained and certified professional pilot in one of the hot air balloons. To make arrangements, contact Bill Hughes of Blue Sky Balloons at 888-999-2461.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Mahopac and receive free news updates.
