The 7th Annual Saratoga Balloon Festival

BALLSTON SPA — Back after a one-year hiatus, the popular Saratoga Balloon and BBQ Festival will occupy the Saratoga County Fairgrounds Aug.  27- 29 for three days of family fun.  Due to COVID-19 concerns, the Festival organizers moved from the traditional Father’s Day weekend to the new dates in late August, when the event was more likely to happen without restrictions. 

Friday’s events include the DareDevil Trained Dog Show, balloon launches, the Brent McCoy  Comedy Juggling Act, and the Balloon Glow at dusk. Saturday is the longest day with more dog shows, another day with Brent McCoy, tethered balloon rides, helicopter rides, and the evening balloon launch. On Sunday, there will be a car show with 100 cars, and the New York Steak Cook-Off with dozens of teams competing for the prizes and fame and bragging rights. 

The Festival includes the Kids Zone – with bounce houses, pony rides, a petting farm, face painting,  a designated magician, Shawn,  a balloon twister, and games – live music daily and a wide choice of food.

The Saratoga County Fairgrounds are located at 162 Prospect St. in Ballston Spa. Festival hours are Friday 3 p.m. to dusk after the Balloon Glow; Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.. It is a rain or shine event. Adult admission is $12; children under 16 $5 at the gate. There is a special price on Sunday: adults are $8 and children $5.  For the adventurous, you can book a balloon ride on the Festival website www.balloonandbbq.com. For balloon launch updates check the website and Facebook: www.facebook.com/saratogaballoonandbbq.