The Rising Above Cancer Hot Air Balloon Fest

Prepare to be wowed by the sheer spectacle of the 7th annual Rising Above Cancer Hot Air Balloon Festival happening in Anderson, SC this Labor Day Weekend. Imagine this: ginormous, colorful hot air balloons floating up there like they just don't care. Yep, that's what's on the menu for the Labor Day bash in 2024.

It's a Balloon Bonanza!

Where and When to Go

If you're up for a good time, head to the Civic Center in Anderson, SC. It's just a hop, skip, and a jump—around 40 minutes—from Greenville, SC. The awesome balloon event goes on for four whole days of awesomeness from August 30th to September 2nd. Free general parking will be located at the Recycling center and Anderson Christmas Lights fields.

Let's Talk Attractions

Balloon Blitz

Picture this: the sky will be a canvas painted with over 30 hot air balloons. That's like a rainbow explosion, but in the air. These beauties will be soaring high, setting the stage for an unforgettable show.

Food, Crafts, and More

Get this: Over 50 vendors and crafters will be flexing their creative muscles. And when hunger strikes, fear not! There will be a lineup of 15+ food trucks, plus a cool beer garden for all the brew enthusiasts out there.

Kiddo Extravaganza

The Kids Zone is going to be a total riot. Think games, petting zoo, face painting, and non-stop fun to keep the little ones grinning ear to ear.

Jammin' and Groovin'

The festival stage will be rockin' with Trent “T-Bone” Loftis.

Festival Vibes with a Purpose

Spreading the Love with the Cancer Association of Anderson

The Rising Above Cancer Fest isn't just about balloons and good times. It's also about supporting the Cancer Association of Anderson—a small but mighty nonprofit that's all about helping local cancer patients. These guys raise their own funds to make a difference in the lives of those fighting cancer. So, when you join the festival, you're lending a hand to this worthy cause.

How It All Started

Angie Stringer, the brains behind the festival, is a cancer survivor herself. She used to work for Anderson County and came up with the idea of "Rising Above Cancer" after spotting a hot air balloon during her own cancer journey. Talk about turning a tough situation into something beautiful.

Your Weekend Game Plan

Friday: AUGUST 30, 2024

• 5 pm: Kick-off the festivities with the Kids Zone, food trucks, and awesome vendors.

• 6-8 pm: Get ready for hot air balloon action, including flights and tethers.

• 7-9 pm: Let loose with live music courtesy of Trent “T-Bone” Loftis

Saturday: AUGUST 31, 2024

• 7-8:30 am: Early birds can catch the hot air balloon flights and tethers.

• 7:30-11 am: Colors Against Cancer Color Run/Walk

• 10 am – 10 pm: The Kids Zone remains open for a day full of kiddo entertainment.

• 3-4:15 pm: The stage comes alive with more live music.

• Evening: Hot air balloon flights and tethers take center stage once again.

Sunday: SEPTEMBER 1, 2024

• 7-8:30 am: Rise and shine for more hot air balloon excitement.

• 10 am – 8 pm: The Kids Zone continues the party.

• 3:30-5 pm: Live music courtesy of Trent “T-Bone” Loftis

• 6-8 pm: Wind down your weekend with captivating hot air balloon flights and tethers.

Monday: SEPTERMBER 2, 2024

• 7-8:30 am: Rise and shine for more hot air balloon excitement.

• 10 am – 2 pm: 2nd Annual Durwood Penninger Classic Car Show by the Peoples Bank. FREE admission for spectators. Car entries in show are $25.

Up Up and Away

Ready for an adventure? If the weather plays nice, you might just get a chance to hop into a hot air balloon. Now, these rides aren't included in the main gig. But it is up to the pilot and the passenger to schedule the ride and pay for a ride of pure balloon bliss.

Oh, and don't forget about tethered rides! You can catch a ride from the KOA, ReMax, and other balloons.

Tips for Maximum Festival Enjoyment

Here are a few pointers to make the most of your festival adventure:

• Leave the Snacks at Home: Outside food and drinks? Not happening.

• Furry Friends: As much as we love our furry buddies, this event is a no-go for pets.

• Get Cozy: Bring along your blankets and chairs for the ultimate comfort.

• Weather Wonders: Rain or shine, the festival is on. However, balloon rides are a different story. They're all about the weather. So, be ready for anything!

This Labor Day Weekend, get ready to be amazed, support a great cause, and create memories that'll stick around like your favorite jam. The Rising Above Cancer Hot Air Balloon Festival is where it's at! For the full scoop on the schedule and everything else, check out the festival's official website. Let's get ready to rock the skies!