BALLOON LAUNCHES

The best times for balloon launches are 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Times may vary depending on weather conditions. Moon glows (hot air balloons tethered and lit up with propane) will be displayed in the evening, following the 6 p.m. launch.

CLOUDHOPPERS

This year, the Festival will welcome cloudhoppers: one-person, experimental balloons. Look for them at each launch.

Things to do

When the balloons aren’t overhead, there is still plenty to do: along the walkway around the edge of the festival grounds, craft and trade booths invite browsing, and a children’s area entertains everyone from toddlers to tweens. Live music can be enjoyed throughout the day and night at stages in both Lewiston and Auburn, from children’s shows and blues singers to jazz, pop, and oldies. A carnival, parade, and various demonstrations and contests round out the weekend events.

Things to eat

Scallops, lobster rolls, clam cakes, hamburgers, sausage sandwiches and so much more, all brought to you by nonprofit organizations. Meals under the big tent include BBQ chicken and ribs on Friday and Saturday evenings, and breakfast throughout the weekend. Watch the launches while you enjoy a pancake or continental breakfast.

PARKING

Ample parking is available in the downtown area. Nonprofit groups will be manning several parking lots adjacent to the festival grounds. Donations are welcome. Handicapped parking will be located near Festival Plaza in Auburn, and Simard-Payne Memorial Park in Lewiston.

Landowner relations

We ask that everyone involved in the Festival, including spectators, volunteers and balloonists, be respectful of landowners’ rights and responsibilities.