What’s the first thing you notice when a hot air balloon festival comes to town? For many in the Lehigh Valley, it’s the glow — that warm, otherworldly light rising slowly into the September sky. From September 5–7, 2025, the Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival will fill Slatington Airport with color, music, and the smell of kettle corn drifting through the air. Families will wander between food trucks, kids will race toward bounce houses, and cameras will tilt skyward for the evening glow. If you plan to join the crowd, an experienced Lehigh Valley personal injury attorney has a few safety tips later in this guide to help keep the weekend memorable for the right reasons.

Event Quick Facts & Schedule

Dates and location

The festival runs September 5–7, 2025, at 1000 Airport Lane in Slatington. Gates open Friday at 4 p.m., and at 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Launches and evening shows

Morning flights lift off around 7:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday, when the valley is still quiet and the air is cool. Evening launches happen at about 4:30 p.m. each day. On Friday and Saturday nights, the field transforms — balloons glow in sync with music, lasers sweep the crowd, and fireworks cap the night. Sunday is Family Fun Day, with a calmer, daytime-only schedule for those who prefer less noise and light.

Top Activities & Attractions

Balloon rides

Full flights at sunrise or sunset need to be booked ahead, and they sell out quickly. Tethered rides, about $25 per person, give you a taste of the view without leaving the grounds for long.

Visuals and entertainment

Special-shaped balloons — a giant pumpkin, a leopard, a pig, an alien, and the towering 110-foot TAZ — draw plenty of attention. Between launches, you can catch live bands, DJ sets, burner demonstrations, balloon twisting by Tootsee the Clown, and a fire show that warms the crowd before the glow.

Family zone

Kids can bounce, play carnival games, and on Sunday, meet animals at the petting zoo. Food trucks and local craft vendors line the walkways, making it easy to spend hours without leaving the site.

Planning Your Visit

Tickets and parking

General admission is sold online and at the gate. On-site parking is $10 per vehicle, with limited handicap spaces available early. Parking along Route 873 or in nearby neighborhoods is prohibited and may result in towing.

Accessibility and sensitivities

Sunday’s daytime schedule is quieter and more accessible for visitors with sensory sensitivities, offering a relaxed way to enjoy the festival.

Why It’s a Can’t-Miss Fall Event

Seasonal appeal

It’s the largest laser-lit balloon glow in the Northeast, timed perfectly with the crisp air and early-fall colors.

Scenic setting

The Lehigh River Valley frames every launch, with rolling hills and open skies that make for postcard-worthy photos.

Inclusive atmosphere

From the sensory-friendly day to activities for all ages, the event is built to welcome everyone.

Tips for Safe & Smooth Outing

Moving through crowds

Watch for uneven ground, cables, and vendor setups with open flames. Take your time in busy areas, especially after dark.

Navigating after sunset

Bring a flashlight or headlamp, and keep your group together. Have your ticket handy for re-entry or staff checks.

Family safety

Pick a visible meeting spot in case someone gets separated. Balloon activities depend on weather, so check for updates before you go.

Safety & Legal Reminder from Our Law Firm

Common hazards

Low-light conditions can hide tripping hazards. Balloon burners are hot, and crowded areas can lead to bumps or collisions. Standing for long periods in warm weather can also cause fatigue or dehydration.

Prevention and response

Wear closed-toe shoes, bring water, supervise children closely, and avoid restricted zones. If an injury occurs, take photos of the area, note lighting and signage, and get witness names. File an incident report with staff and seek medical care promptly. Keep receipts for any related expenses.

Conclusion

The Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival is one of the Lehigh Valley’s most anticipated fall weekends, with glowing skies, live entertainment, and activities for all ages. From the quiet beauty of a morning launch to the high-energy laser-lit glow, it’s a celebration of light, color, and community. 

To make the most of it, plan ahead — book rides early, arrive before sunset, and take care when moving through low-light areas. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of the festival while keeping safety in mind. And if an unfortunate incident disrupts your day, Lehigh Valley Medical Malpractice Lawyers is just a call away, ready to help you focus on recovery.