By Steven Roberts
For most of us, our fascination with balloons starts at an early age. I would even go as far to say that balloon is one of the first 50 words that most of of us learn. That fascination never seems to go away completely for many of us. I have to admit that I fall into that category.
If you have ever seen a hot air balloon fly overhead at close distance, it’s a sight to behold. With a little bit of research, you can find festivals throughout the country. The closest one to us is in Helen, GA. Helen is a great tourist town that was built to resemble a German village. It’s a great place to visit any time of year, but on May 30, 2024, they will hold their annual balloon festival with about 25 participants.
I have been to the festival a few times. We had a family friend who was a self-described “balloonatic” and set sail every year there. We were often asked to be the “chase crew.” Hot air balloons have no steering mechanisms, so as the chase crew, it was our job to follow the ballon in the chase vehicle on the ground, and be there when they landed. It was an adventure, to say the least.
Well, Holly Springs, the only thing better than driving six hours to Helen, GA to see balloons, is to be able to see them right here at home. If you haven’t already heard, balloons are coming to our very own Sugg Farm on June 7 and 8.
Hot Air Balloon Management, a leading name in organizing hot air balloon festivals since 2008, is hosting an event called the Balloon Glow & Laser Show!
This organization’s pilots are experienced flyers, most with over two decades of expertise. Their dedication to the craft now merges with a heartfelt cause, as a portion of the event’s proceeds will be donated to the Special Olympics.
There will be multiple activities according to the show’s organizers.
Balloon Glow & Laser Show: After dusk, witness the sky light up with an awe-inspiring glow from synchronized hot air balloons, complemented by a laser show, music, and interactive countdowns for the crowd.
Family Fun Time: The event features an array of attractions including a Kids Zone with games, rides, bounce houses, and more. Live music will entertain attendees alongside craft and retail booths, offering a plethora of items for sale.
Festival Style Food: A variety of food vendors will be on-site, serving delicious festival-style food to satisfy all tastes.
Tethered Hot Air Balloon Rides: Fulfill your bucket list with tethered hot air balloon rides available for purchase, weather permitting.
The Balloon Glow & Laser Show, brought to you by Hot Air Balloon Management, invites everyone to bring their blankets, chairs, and umbrellas to find their “perfect” viewing spot.
There is ample parking at Sugg Park, but the line to park is usually extensive, so plan accordingly.
The event is on both June 7 and June 8 from 5:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. Balloon glows are usually at sunset, which is at roughly 8:30 p.m. at that time of the year.
Tickets for the event are available at www.freshtix.com/events/balloonsholly. For further details about Hot Air Balloon Management, you can visit their website at balloonshows.com.
