For more than three decades now, the skies above Sussex have filled up with colourful hot air balloons on the weekend after Labour Day. The 34th annual Atlantic Balloon Fiesta is scheduled to take place from Friday, September 6th to Sunday, September 8th at Princess Louise Park. Bring your friends and family for a weekend of fun and frivolity in the picturesque hills of Kings County.

The very first Atlantic Balloon Fiesta was held in 1985 in a bid to extend the tourist season. What started off as an informal gathering of a few balloonists has since grown into one of the top festivals in Atlantic Canada. Today, balloonists travel from all over the world to take part in the festival. As many as 30 different balloons will be taking off over the course of each day while a number of other fun family activities will also be happening in the park.

Hot air balloon rides, which are offered in the morning and evening over the entire weekend, are easily the most exciting aspect of the festival. Morning rides are scheduled to take off at 6:30 am and evening rides at 5 pm. To book a flight, just visit the Information Booth inside Golden Jubilee Hall. Starting at 6 am Friday morning, you will be able to book flights for any day of the festival. The cost is $200 per person and can only be paid in cash. There will be an ATM on site.

In addition to the balloon rides, other popular Atlantic Balloon Fiesta activities include amusement rides, a free outdoor bandstand, vendors and concession, a petting zoo, laser tag, a craft fair, and, of course, simply sitting back and watching the balloons rise high into the sky. Make sure you also pay a visit to the large indoor market, which will be open every day of the festival. Admission price is $2, and children under six get in free!

Though festivities will begin early in the day on Friday, the official opening ceremonies are scheduled to be held at 5:30 pm on the launch field. Cake will be served to those in attendance, so come and grab your slice! The following day kicks off with the Teddy Bear Parade at the bandstand, a wonderful event for kids.

More unique activities on Saturday include chain saw carving demonstrations, performances by the Sussex Tail Waggers, and a fire show by Port City Circus. The highlight of the final day of the festival is the free Classic & Antique Car Show and Shine, which will begin at 9 am and run until 3 pm.

The weekend after Labour Day, don’t forget to come out to Sussex and enjoy a thrilling balloon ride or keep your feet firmly planted on the ground and take part in some other fun activities as the balloons soar above. The 2019 Atlantic Balloon Fiesta promises to be a memorable and eventful weekend.