Up Up and Away! A massive hot air balloon festival will light up the sky over Lakeland, Florida — just a short drive from Tampa that is so worth the trip. Up Up and Away takes place from February 28-March 1.
You don’t just have to watch them take off, you can catch a ride inside one of the many brilliantly bright hot air balloons.
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For those interested in taking off in a hot air balloon, you can schedule a ride online in advance of the event. Balloon rides are available Saturday, February 29 and Sunday, March 1. Morning flights launch at 7:30am and afternoon flights lift off at 4:30pm.
Tickets for a balloon ride are $250 each.
Up Up and Away is more than just hot air balloons. The three-day festival features a kids zone, live music, food trucks, a beer garden and more. You can find a full schedule of events by visiting the Festival Calendar.
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Oh, and did we mention Helicopter rides. Yes, in case you want to fly but not in a basket, you can soar above the Tampa Bay region.
Those who stick around after sunset will be treated to hot air balloon glows. The giant contraptions will be illuminated as they gently hover above the city. It’s a transfixing spectacle everyone should witness at least once.
Event Details:
When: February 28-March 1
Where: 4175 Medulla Rd, Lakeland, FL 33811
Cost: $15/day online, $20.00 for a 3 day weekend pass.
Parking: Weekend Parking Passes are $25+tax, available online only and Daily Parking Passes are $10+tax.
Would you ride in a hot air balloon? Let us know in the comments.
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