03/09/2026
The little mountain town of Helen, Georgia is the annual site of the “Helen to the Atlantic Balloon Race”…where you can watch colorful hot air balloons rise into the sky and begin an amazing journey across the Southeast. Held Thursday, June 4, 2026, this long-running event is now in its 53rd year and is known as the South’s oldest balloon event and the only long-distance hot air balloon race in the United States. Around 20 bright balloons lift off at 7:00 a.m. from the Alpine-style village, slowly drifting over the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains as the morning sky fills with color.
The race route stretches all the way to I-95, which means pilots may land anywhere between Maine and Miami depending on the winds. The trip covers at least 225 miles and most teams finish in about two days, though a few have completed it in just one day when the winds are right. Pilots rise and drop to different heights searching for the best wind currents while their ground crews follow them by truck, helping guide them and refuel along the way.
Visitors can also enjoy more than just the race. During evening balloon inflations, you can walk right up beside the giant balloons as crews spread the fabric across the ground and fill them with air. Guests often help hold the sides as the balloons rise, giving you a close look at how these massive aircraft come to life. You can even sign up to ride along with a chase team or take a tethered balloon ride that lifts you high above Helen for a sweeping view of the mountains and town below.
