2015 New Haven Hot Air Balloon Festival
The 2015 New Haven Hot Air Balloon Festival will be held September 25th and 26th!
For more than 20 years the New Haven Hot Air Balloon Festival has been entertaining locals and out-of-towners alike! Featuring a variety of events, including a balloon glow, “hare and hound” balloon race, and parade, the New Haven Hot Air Balloon Festival has been named one of the top ten hot air balloon events in the country.
Balloon Glow Information
The Balloon Glow will begin Friday, Sept. 25, 6:30PM, at the New Haven City Park. It offers a breathtaking view of inflated balloons lighted by their burners so that they glow like huge light bulbs or Chinese lanterns. It is a spectacular display , and spectators are encouraged to get up close and walk around the balloons.
The Balloon Glow is free and open to the public. Co-sponsored by RE/MAX Today.
Parade Information
The New Haven Area Chamber of Commerce has announced a parade will be held in conjunction with the Balloon Race on Saturday, Sept. 26, at 1:00PM. The theme is “Hands Across the Sea” in recognition of our Sister-City partnership with Borgholzhausen, Germany. Entries are now being accepted!
Little Mr. and Miss New Haven Contest
Following the parade, there will be a Little Mr. and Miss New Haven contest for children ages 4-6. Entries are now being accepted!
“Hare and Hound” Balloon Race
The balloons begin inflating for launch between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., weather permitting. The race begins when the lead “hare” balloon takes off ahead of the pack. Over 20 “hound” balloons then launch in pursuit. The “hound” balloon that drops its bean bag closest to the hare balloon’s landing site will be declared the winner.
The Balloon Race is free and open to the public. The Balloon Race is co-sponsored by Backes & Toelke Agri Products, Bank of Franklin County, Citizens Bank, Edward Jones of New Haven – Jim Stiles, Hair, Peoples Savings Bank, Quick’s Save-A-Lot, Robller Vineyard Winery, Larry Hanks Painting, Shear Connection Salon & Spa.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do the glow and race cost to watch?
Nothing! The New Haven Balloon Race and Glow are free and open to the public.
Am I allowed to bring pets?
Absolutely!
Where will the balloons land?
Hot-air balloons follow the wind. We have no way of knowing which direction the balloons will travel until race day. Look at the forecast the day of the race to see which direction the winds are supposed to come from (and head towards).
Can I bring a cooler to the balloon glow and race?
Yes!
Can I bring chairs to the balloon glow and race?
Yes!
Are food and drink available?
Yes, limited food and soft drinks will be available for purchase.
Where should I park?
The Balloon Glow is held at the New Haven City Park and is a walk through event only — not a drive through event. Park Drive will be closed for both events and spectators are encouraged to park on Lion’s Drive or in the New Haven High School and Municipal Swimming Pool parking lots.
Information for this post provided by the New Haven Balloon Race Facebook page and http://www.newhavenballoonrace.com/