08/16/2026
See you next year. Thanks so much for giving us a try and thanks to all our repeat friends that stopped by.
THANK YOU! ❤️🎈
What an incredible day!
From the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU to everyone who made the 2026 Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival such a tremendous success.
To every guest who purchased a ticket, every volunteer who gave their time, every sponsor who believed in our mission, every vendor who joined us, our talented entertainers, amazing balloon pilots and crews, first responders, law enforcement, the Townsend Event Center staff, our committee members, board of directors, and the countless people working behind the scenes—you made this festival possible.
Because of your support, we're able to continue investing back into the community we all love. Every ticket purchased, every sponsorship, every volunteer hour, and every smiling face helps us preserve, promote, and strengthen Townsend—the Peaceful Side of the Smokies.
This festival has never been just about hot air balloons. It's about bringing people together, creating lasting memories, supporting local businesses, and giving back to the town we are proud to call home.
Whether this was your first visit or you're one of our longtime festival friends, thank you for making Townsend part of your story.
We are already looking forward to doing it all again!
📅 Mark your calendars:
Saturday, August 21, 2027
(The third Saturday in August)
Until then... thank you for your support, your encouragement, and for helping us continue this tradition.
See you next year!🎈❤️
