Plan Your Visit
Nestled along the scenic Saint John River, the village of Bath, New Brunswick offers a beautiful backdrop for a weekend getaway — and there’s no better time to visit than during the River Bend Balloon Fest. Whether you’re coming from near or far, you’ll find small-town hospitality, open skies, and the unforgettable sight of hot air balloons rising at sunrise and glowing at dusk. From cozy accommodations to family-friendly restaurants and charming local attractions, Bath is the perfect place to relax and take in the magic.
A hot air balloon festival is a truly unique experience. We recommend bringing a lawn chair or blanket so you can enjoy the show comfortably. Dress in layers and be prepared for early mornings and cool evenings — balloon flights typically happen at sunrise and sunset when the winds are calmest. While we love furry friends, please leave pets at home for everyone’s safety. Most of all, bring your sense of wonder — there’s nothing quite like the sound of burners firing as balloons lift gently into the sky.
Explore the Area
Planning your visit to River Bend Balloon Fest? We’ve put together a helpful guide with local recommendations for accommodations, dining, and fun things to do while you’re in Bath, NB. Take a look at the options below and make the most of your festival weekend!
Festival Tips
What to Bring
To the festival: We recommend packing a few essentials to help you make the most of your time at the festival. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to stay protected from the sun, and a folding chair or blanket so you can relax comfortably on the fairgrounds. There is no ATM on site so you’ll also want to bring cash. Don’t forget your camera or phone—there will be lots of photo-worthy moments!
For a hot air balloon flight: Bring any medication (eg EpiPen, insulin, inhalers) that you may need during the flight. Wear comfortable clothing and flat, closed-toe shoes that you do not mind getting wet! Long hair must be secured before getting in the basket and passengers must not wear hanging jewelry or loose clothing. The temperature on the ground may be different than in the air so we recommend layers – long pants, a hat and sunglasses are ideal!
What Not to Bring
For everyone’s safety and enjoyment, we ask that you leave pets, drones, and alcohol at home. Hot air balloons are sensitive to unexpected movement and noise, so animals—even well-behaved ones—can pose a risk. Service animals are always welcome. Drones are strictly prohibited near balloon activity, as are smoking and vaping (propane is in use).
Thank you for helping keep the festival safe and enjoyable for all!
How much does it cost?
Admission to the fairgrounds is completely free!
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Hot air balloon rides – $250 per person
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Tethered balloon rides – $10 per person
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Lumberjack competition – $10 per person (free for children under 12)
Please note: All purchases are cash only, and there is no ATM on site, so come prepared!
Where can I park?
Free parking is available at the fairgrounds.
When do balloons fly?
Flights are scheduled at 6:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Thursday to Monday of Labour Day weekend. It takes time to get ready to launch and sometimes we have to go off site (depending on weather conditions) and then get ready to launch from there, so it’s usually closer to 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. before you’ll see balloons in the sky.
Are balloon rides guaranteed?
Balloon rides are weather dependent and safety always comes first. While we’ll do our best to re-book you if your flight is cancelled, we can’t guarantee that another opportunity will be available. If we’re unable to re-book your flight, your deposit will be fully refunded.
How do I book a flight?
Thank you for your interest! You can reserve a flight here. One of our flight coordinators will email you within three days. If you do not receive an email by then, contact us at flyriverbend@gmail.com and someone will help you.
How will I know if a launch is cancelled?
Pilots have a weather briefing before each flight. We’ll post updates on our Facebook page and make announcements at the fairgrounds. Sometimes reception does not let us post as quickly or as often as we would like, but we will try our best to keep everyone up to date.
What happens if it rains?
Hot air balloons cannot fly in the rain due to safety reasons. If the forecast looks promising, our Balloon Meister may choose to hold or delay the launch in hopes that the weather clears. We’ll keep everyone updated through announcements at the fairgrounds and posts on our Facebook page.
Why is wind so important?
Wind is one of the most critical factors in hot air ballooning. Even light winds on the ground can mean stronger winds up high, which affect launch safety, flight control, and landing conditions. For the safety of passengers, pilots, and crew, balloons will only fly when wind conditions are just right.
What is a glow?
A balloon glow is one of the most magical parts of the festival! Just after sunset, hot air balloons stay tethered to the ground and light up their burners in unison, creating a glowing display of color and light against the evening sky. It’s a breathtaking experience and a perfect photo opportunity—be sure to bring your camera!
What is a tether?
A tethered balloon ride gives you the thrill of a hot air balloon experience—without leaving the festival grounds! The balloon is securely anchored to the ground with ropes and lifts a short distance into the air, giving passengers a chance to enjoy the view and feel the sensation of flight in a safe, controlled setting. It’s perfect for kids, first-timers, or anyone who prefers to keep things close to the ground.
What is the minimum age for a balloon flight?
In general, balloon passengers should be around 8 years old or older, but the final decision is always up to the pilot. Passengers need to be able to stand for the duration of the flight, follow safety instructions, and climb in and out of the basket with minimal help. Each flight is unique, and pilot discretion ensures the safety of everyone on board!
Are there any restrictions on who can fly?
Yes — for safety reasons, passengers must be able to climb into the basket (about 3 feet high), walk over uneven ground, and stand unassisted for at least 90 minutes. Ballooning can involve hard landings, so it’s important that passengers can follow the pilot’s instructions and are physically prepared.
Balloon rides are not permitted for individuals who are:
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Pregnant (confirmed or suspected)
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Using oxygen
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Recovering from recent neck, back, or joint-replacement surgery
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Living with a heart condition or spinal injury
If you’re unsure whether ballooning is right for you, feel free to contact us with questions.
How long does a balloon flight last?
The full hot air balloon experience typically takes 3 hours, including setup, launch, flight, landing, and pack-up, and return to the fairgrounds. Time in the air varies depending on wind direction and available landing sites, but most flights last around an hour.