Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When will we see the balloons?

A: Balloons will launch early in the morning, typically right after sunrise for the morning Mass Ascension which is free to the public. Hot air balloons do not operate during the middle of the day because when surface winds are calm, hot air balloon pilots can control the altitude of the balloon very finely by heating or venting the air inside. During the day these light surface winds are broken up by "thermals." These are rising columns of warm air that spiral up towards the sky. These thermals are caused by the heating effect of the sun on the ground. Birds and glider pilots love them but for a hot air balloon, thermals make it very difficult to control the balloon.

Q: When do you decide whether the balloons will fly or tether?

A: Our experienced balloon meister monitors weather conditions right up until scheduled times. Because weather can change, we may postpone a balloon activity for an hour or more. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram for balloon activities and other announcements.

Q: Where can I park my vehicle or bicycle?

A: Various churches (St. Patrick Church and Collierville Baptist Church) around the festival grounds will provide parking for free. You can also park at West Collierville Middle School and take a shuttle to the event. Please do not park at the businesses around the festival grounds!

Q: Where will the balloons take off?

A: All ballooning activities will take place on the festival field on Maynard Way off of Byhalia Road in Collierville.

Q: Do I get to ride in a balloon?

A: Balloon rides for the public are limited to the tethered balloon rides only. A tethered ride will go up about 50' in the air while tied to the ground. Tickets will be available for purchase at the event. Tickets for tethered balloon rides are $20. per person.(weather permitting)

Q: May I bring my own chair and blanket? Are coolers allowed?

A: You will be allowed to bring blankets and chairs into the festival grounds. However, coolers will NOT be allowed. No outside food, drinks or alcohol will be allowed.

Q: What forms of payment will be accepted?

A: Tickets to the event MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE. Tickets are purchased for either Friday OR Saturday. There will be no re-entry. Based on current COVID guidelines, attendance will be limited to 5,000 per day. The entire event requires TOUCH LESS PAYMENT - Cash will NOT be accepted for ticket entry, food, drinks or carnival rides.

Q: Are the tether rides handicap / wheelchair accessible?

A: Yes! We will have two of the three hot air balloons in the country that can safely accommodate these groups.

Q: How many people can ride a tether balloon ride at a time?

A: This depends on weight. Most of the tether balloons can accommodate up to five people.

Q: Can I buy tickets at the event?

A: Tickets must be purchased online. You may purchase tickets the day of the event if there are any available. Attendance is capped at 5,000 each day due to COVID.

Q: Can I fly my drone during the festival?

A: Drones are NOT allowed on the festival grounds per the federal aviation administration.

Q: How do I volunteer?

A: The Bluff City Balloon Jamboree, a 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization relies on hundreds of volunteers to make this event a success. Volunteers help in all areas including balloon chase crews, Public Information, gate hosting, hospitality, and VIP areas. Must be 16 years or older or accompanied by an adult.