Hot air balloons make me anxious. Yes, I have gone skydiving, snowboarded in back backcountry, and done some other adrenaline-pumping activities...yet hot air balloons make my heart race.

But, of course, it is on my bucket list.

Regardless of being up in one or not, hot air balloon festivals are a bit of art work. If you have ever seen multiple hot air balloons in the sky at once, you know it is a beautiful sight.

Hot Air Ballon Festivals in New England:

There are a variety of hot air balloon festivals in New England this summer, and they are perfect for any family or couple looking for a day out (whether that be admiring the sky or being up in a basket).

Most festivals offer the chance to get into a hot air balloon (whether it be tethered to the ground or not), but all will be entertaining for riders or spectators.

Hot Air Ballon Festivals in Maine:

According to an LBFphoto article, there are two hot air balloon fests in Maine. 1). The Great Balloons Festival - no date posted - check their Facebook page for dates. 2). The Crown of Maine Balloon Fest.

The Crown of Maine Balloon Fest takes place from August 22-24 and is free at the Northern Maine Fairgrounds.

Hot Air Ballon Festivals in Massachusetts:

On July 25 and 26, the Billrica Balloon Glow and Laser Show takes place at Vietnam Veterans Park.

There will be tethered and untethered rides, a DJ, a laser show, and more.

Hot Air Ballon Festivals in New Hampshire:

The Suncook Valley Rotary’s Hot Air Balloon Rally Weekend seems like an epic time to be in New Hampshire from  August 1 - 3, 2025.

With an "anything that floats" rigatta, balloon rides, and helicopter rides, this is a must-do balloon fest in Pittsfield, NH.

Keep scrolling to see the 2025 Summer Concert Calendar for Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire: