Excitement in the Air: A Spectacle In The Sky
Get ready to witness a sky full of vibrant colors and soaring spirits as the South’s oldest balloon event and the United States’ only long-distance hot air balloon race take flight in North Georgia’s Alpine Village – Helen. Weather permitting, the excitement begins with a mass ascension of approximately 20 bright and colorful hot air balloons on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at 7:00 am.
A Race Like No Other
Step into the world of adventure as the race kicks off in Helen and sets its sights on the finish line – I-95, spanning anywhere between Maine and Miami. The challenge is on for race competitors and local flyers alike as they navigate the skies, with the shortest distance being 225 miles. Will it be a two-day journey or a sprint to the finish in one day? Only time will tell as the race unfolds.
Test of Skill and Strategy
In the world of hot air ballooning, both pilot and crew must work in harmony to master the elements. With the wind as their guide, pilots must find the perfect altitude to navigate towards the finish line while conserving fuel. For crews, every moment counts as they race against time to refuel the balloons and keep the adventure alive. The ultimate prize awaits the first person to cross I-95 or the one leading at sunset on Friday, May 30, 2024. It’s a race against the clock and the elements, with excitement building as the competition heats up.
While the race to the Atlantic unfolds, there’s plenty of action closer to home. Join us for local flying events starting Thursday evening at 6:00 pm, with additional events on Friday and Saturday. Take part in the excitement as balloons take flight around 7:30 am and 6:00 pm each day (weather permitting), offering opportunities for the public to assist with inflation, join chase crews, or even take a tethered ride in a balloon. With approximately 20 balloons taking flight locally, there’s no shortage of excitement and fun to be had at the Helen to the Atlantic Balloon Race & Festival. Mark your calendars, gather your crew, and join us for an unforgettable adventure in the skies above Helen, Georgia.
Where to Stay?
Spending your weekend at the Hot Air Balloon Festival in Helen, GA, means you’ll need a comfortable and relaxing place to rest and recharge on your vacation. What better way to experience Blue Ridge Mountains from the mountaintops at Lucille’s Mountain Top Inn & Spa? Our luxury bed and breakfast inn and spa offers a two-course gourmet breakfast every morning, with local sourced ingredients. And please don’t forget to save room for our DESSERTS! End your day on a SWEET note and indulge in our dessert bar every evening with fresh in-house desserts made daily for your enjoyment!
Call Now to Book
Strolling around town will leave your muscles aching for a soothing bubble massage bathtub back at the Inn. To further unwind, sip local wine in the rockers with a breathtaking view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, cozy up next to one of our fire pits, or book an intimate couples massage and enjoy a spa day together. Book online or give us a call at 706-878-5055.