Up, Up, and Away With the Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival

The skies above the Hudson Valley are about to get very colorful this weekend with the 25th annual Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival, presented by the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce. Close to 100 balloon launches are planned for this weekend along with a moon glow, where the balloons will be lit but still be on the banks of the Hudson River Saturday night at 8:30.

All launches are weather and wind permitting. Friday and Saturday evening launches are planned for 6PM at Migliorelli Farm at 48 Freeborn Lane, Red Hook, and on the banks of the Hudson River, just south of Shadows on the Hudson. Morning launches will be held Saturday and Sunday at 6AM at the Dutchess County Airport in Wappingers Falls.

You don't have to just watch the balloons fill the sky, you can also take a ride in one. There is a fee but the rides last almost an hour. Click here for information, costs, and to make your reservations.

According to the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce, a shuttle bus will loop continuously from 5–9:45PM Friday, July 10, and Saturday, July 11 between the Poughkeepsie Train Station Garage, the 23 Market Street Garage (near the bus depot) and Shadows on The Hudson. There will be children's activities presented by various non-profit organizations during the evening launches. Refreshments will also be available.

For additional information, or any changes in this weekend's schedule click here, or call Balloon Festival hotline at 845-505-4688.