TETHERED RIDES

Want a taste of hot air balloon flight? Tethered balloon rides give you the chance to sample the experience of a hot air balloon flight!

Price Per Ride: $20 each

bracelets are First Come, First Serve. No advance Bracelet sales

What To Know About Tethered Balloon Rides:

  • Balloons will not be flying.  Tethered means they are tied off to the ground with ropes.

  • Tethered rides are about 40 feet off the ground and normally last 4 to 5 minutes.

  • Rides are limited to 100 total bracelets each session. We expect demand to be high, so plan to arrive early. No one is guaranteed a tethered ride and operations may stop based upon safety concerns of each pilot.

  • The total number of people we'll be able to provide tethered rides to is dependent upon weather and wind conditions. All of these factors may change and are beyond control of the festival's volunteers.

  • Participants should be in generally good physical condition. Passengers must:

  • Have the ability to climb over side of the basket since they are not equipped with doors.

  • Wear closed toe/comfortable shoes

  • The size of the balloon, weight of passengers, and the air temperature determine how many people can be lifted at a time. 

  • Parents - Sometimes small children can be frightened by the burners and might not enjoy the experience.

  • Refunds will only be provided in the event the COMBF volunteers or pilots determine it is unsafe to fly.  No refunds will be provided to passengers who do not meet the flying requirements below, or for passengers who voluntarily decide not to fly.

HOW TO GET YOUR FLIGHT

  • Bracelets go on sale each evening at 6pm are are $20 each, cash only. ALL RIDERS must be present at the time of bracelet purchase. Bracelets are non-transferrable.

  • When tethered rides begin, bracelet numbers will be called. If your bracelet number is within that range, or smaller, you will be able to line up near the Forestry Building.

  • Crown of Maine Balloon Fest Volunteers will greet you and confirm that you meet all flying requirements. They will take your bracelet number at the time of the flight and will direct you when it is your turn to approach the basket.

  • While in/around the basket all riders must listen to the pilots at all times. Failure to follow pilot and volunteer direction may result in the inability to fly.

  RESTRICTIONS

  • Do NOT RIDE if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.

  • Children under 42" tall may not ride.

  • Rides are not recommended for anyone who has had recent surgery, or have a medical condition that leaves them in a weakened state.

  • Passengers unable to independently walk and/or stand will not be permitted.