Lancaster is a vibrant, social, active county that is home to hundreds of unique community events, creative fundraisers and intriguing gatherings. Not only is this one full of hot air, it's also very uplifting.

"There is a lot for people to see and enjoy," said Terry Buda Moser, who's been the director of sales and marketing for Bird-In-Hand Corporation for 12 years. "My favorite part of the event is seeing the community come together and enjoying a special family event. I enjoy seeing the different hot air balloons."

That's right, majestic, multicolored hot air balloons are coming to Bird-in-Hand. The Bird-in-Hand Hot Air Balloon Festival will be staged from 3 to 10 p.m. on both Friday, Sept. 25, and Saturday, Sept. 26, at the event field located at 320 N. Ronks Road, Bird-in-Hand.

There are fees associated with entrance into the Bird-in-Hand Hot Air Balloon Festival, but the colorful balloons will be visible from miles away.

The festival will feature a handful of traditional hot air balloons, as well as uniquely shaped balloons. Eight-minute, tethered balloon rides, which will elevate passengers 75 feet above the ground and provide riders with incredible views of the surrounding Bird-in-Hand countryside, will be available at additional costs.

"Our goal is to bring our communities together and create a memorable, family-friendly festival that combines hot air balloon experiences, evening entertainment and a variety of delicious foods," said Buda Moser. "It is a community event and a family-friendly event. We are discussing providing some proceeds to a nonprofit."

While the hot air balloons will serve as the star attractions, providing the event's backdrop will be DJ-infused musical entertainment; evening laser light shows; vendors; crafts; hay rides; a kids' zone complete with games, rides, bounce houses and a carnival-like atmosphere; and food trucks, some of which will feature bacon cuisine.

"There are a lot of activities offered," said Buda Moser, a resident of Manheim Township. "People are spending time outdoors on our farm and enjoying the village of Bird-in-Hand."

A total of more than 7,000 people are expected to attend the Bird-in-Hand Hot Air Balloon Festival over the event's two days.A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Conestoga Valley SEEDS.

In 2023, Bird-in-Hand Corporation hosted the Lancaster Hot Air Balloon Festival.

"Bird-in-Hand has hosted hot air balloon flights from our event field for years," said Buda Moser. "We wanted to plan another community event, and a hot air balloon festival was an opportunity for us to share something unique with the community, along with inviting new guests to experience Bird-in-Hand and Lancaster County."

"We hope for it to become a yearly event in September," Buda Moser added.

For additional information, go to http://www.Bird-in-Hand.com.