Billowing balloons will be soaring high above the Garden State this weekend at the 33rd Annual QuickChek New Jersey Festival of Ballooning, held July 24–26 at Solberg Airport in Readington, N.J. The international event is the largest summertime hot air balloon and music festival in North America, and a sight to see as the beautiful balloons take flight above New Jersey’s Atlantic coastline.
The event attracts pilots from 25 states and four countries, as well as 165,000 attendees. Activities include watching daily ascensions, listening to live music and taking hot air balloon rides. The headliner band this year is Kansas. On Saturday night, all the balloons will be lit to glow throughout the night sky — a magical vision not to be missed.
© Gary718 | Dreamstime
Modern-day balloons consist of a rip-stop nylon envelope, a wicker basket, a propane burner and flight instruments. Heated air inside the envelope creates a lighter, less dense air mass, allowing the balloons to take flight. The technology is not much different than that developed by France’s Montgolfier brothers more than 200 years ago. Wind dictates the direction and speed of flight of hot air balloons and pilots can alter the direction by changing altitudes and finding favorable winds.
Balloon companies operate throughout New Jersey with a variety of available flight options.
Read This Next
Top 5: Diners in New Jersey
North America
Sep 24, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Jan 2, 2025The Retreat Costa Rica Announces $3 Million Expansion
The Retreat Costa Rica recently embarked on a $3 million expansion that added 26,500 square feet with a clubhouse, three restaurants and 10 luxury lofts. The expansion is expected to be complete in late April 2025.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Destinations / North America
Jan 1, 2025New Ways to Ski in Upstate New York
Did you know New York has the most ski areas in the United States, with more than 50 skiing destinations? If you’re keen to try them out, you’ll have even more fun new ways to ski in Upstate New York this winter thanks to new ski resort additions and enhancements throughout the region.
Dining/Entertainment
Jan 1, 2025Find an Alpine Chalet Experience in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
When one thinks of crackling fireplaces, fondue fountains and crisp Champagne, they might dream of being in a cozy European mountainside chalet. But this experience can actually be had in Western Pennsylvania. While physically in Pittsburgh, visitors will feel like they’re in Mont Blanc, Saint Moritz and Verbier at Hyeholde restaurant.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Hotel
Jan 1, 2025Discover Pebble Beach Resorts’ Romantic Winter Offerings
Winter chill sets the stage for warmth and togetherness among couples, and whether curling up by a fire or cuddled up with a blanket to stargaze, it's the perfect time to jump into activities celebrating love and creating a sense of closeness.
ShareThis