For over 30 years, the Plainville Fire Company has hosted one of the largest hot air balloon festivals in the Northeast. It’s a rare opportunity to see about two dozen hot air balloons take off at the same time.

Each year, the event kicks off with a Friday night "balloon glow."
Flickr/Heartlover1717
What is a balloon glow? A group of balloons inflates around sunset, and the balloons look gorgeous in the setting sun. Once the sun goes down, the spectacle becomes even more beautiful. The balloons light up with brightly glowing colors every time their burners ignite.
After the balloon glow, an already-spectacular night is made even better with a fireworks display by the Plainville Fire Company.
Facebook/Plainville Fire Company Hot Air Balloon Festival
Watch a group of about two dozen balloons take off during balloon launches Saturday morning at 6:00 A.M, Saturday evening at 6:00 P.M., and Sunday morning at 6:00 A.M.
Flickr/Heartlover1717

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Entrance to the festival is free. Balloon rides must be pre-booked through the event site. Some balloon operators offer tethered balloon rides for a small fee.
Facebook/Plainville Fire Company Hot Air Balloon Festival
Of course, you'll want to bring cash for food and the arts & crafts show.
Facebook/Plainville Fire Company Hot Air Balloon Festival
Hot air balloons aren't the only form of transportation celebrated at the event; there's also a car show. For even more entertainment, catch a variety of musical acts throughout the weekend.
Facebook/Plainville Fire Company Hot Air Balloon Festival
The Plainville Fire Company uses the funds raised during the event to support the local community.
Flickr/Heartlover1717

The 33rd Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival & Outdoor Arts & Crafts Show will be August 25-27 at Norton Park in Plainville. Have you been? Will you check it out this year? Share your photos with us on Facebook and Instagram if you do!

For more summer activities to squeeze in before Labor Day rolls around, check out our Connecticut summer bucket list.

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