top 10 frequently asked question about hot air balloon festivals
1. Why are the balloon ascensions at such unusual times 6:00a.m – 8:00am & 6:00p.m - 8:00pm
It is the safest to launch hot air balloons when the surface winds are less than 6-8 mph. Therefore, ascensions are at the two times during the day when winds are calmest - one hour after sunrise, and one hour prior to sunset. As the sun heats up the atmosphere, it creates breezes, otherwise known as "thermals." Therefore, the best time to launch the balloons is while the air is still cool, or cooling down.
2. Where Can I Park?
The festival offers the convenience of 80 plus acres of on-site parking. Shuttle Service from nearby Shirley/Mastic LIRR Station: Details To Be Announced.
For directions to the on-site and off-site parking areas, visit the Directions page (To Be Announced). Festival Administration encourages patrons to take the Long Island Railroad to the event. Reduced Ticket rates are being offered at - Destinations
3. Can I bring a cooler with food and beverage into the festival?
Coolers, bottles and food are not permitted on the festival grounds for safety reasons. The festival provides an assortment of unique foods at our main food concessions.
4. Can I bring a pet into the festival?
Only animals essential for medical purposes (with proper documentation) are allowed on festival grounds. Please make arrangements to leave your beloved pets at home during your trip to the festival.
5. What is a Balloon Glow?
The signature event at a hot air balloon festival, the balloon glow has been compared to Christmas in August or flickering Japanese lanterns. At predetermined signals, the pilots blast the propane burners, which release a burst of fire into the balloon. The balloons "glow" like huge fireflies, a truly magical scene, and one not to be missed! The balloon glows will occur at Friday and Saturday evenings concerts.
6. What Types Of Tickets Do You Offer for the Festival/Concerts?
General Admission Ticket: provides entrance to the festival grounds and most activities during the festival day. This also provides a "standing view" of that night's concert performance.
7. Can I take a balloon ride?
A hot air balloon ride is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Might we suggest taking a ride during the morning ascension, a sunrise balloon ride is truly magical. The early wake-up call is well worth the trouble.
8. How close can I get to the balloons?
While the FAA mandates that we fence in the balloon launch area for safety purposes, you can easily secure a prime viewing spot along the 1,800 foot flight line to view these magnificent and colorful balloons. Attending the morning ascensions on both Saturday and Sunday, enables you to get the best, unobstructed view.
9. What goes on at the festival other than watching the balloons?
The Metro NY Balloon & Music Festival offers a wide variety of entertainment. There is truly something for everyone! From colorful hot air balloons ascending twice daily to 3 headlining concerts, to world-class children's entertainment, hundred’s of arts & crafts vendors, food vendors, air shows, extreme sports, fireworks, balloon glows, amusement rides, and more. We guarantee non-stop entertainment for the entire family!
10. When is the best time to come to the festival?
While there is non-stop family entertainment throughout each day of the festival, if you want to see balloons, the best time to come is early in the morning to watch the 6:30 am ascension or in the mid-afternoon to watch the 6:30 pm ascension. Traffic tends to build up around 3:00 pm each day, so to avoid traffic, arrive a bit earlier. You will have time to walk the festival grounds, enjoy the crafters, exhibitors and vendors, and even take in some of our entertainment before watching the balloons. There will always be something to do at the Metro NY Balloon & Music Festival.
