Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race: A First Timers Guide
The Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race takes place every June in Helen, Georgia. I’ve been wanting to attend since I first saw pictures of those brightly colored balloons soaring over the adorable alpine inspired town.
The 52nd Annual Helen to the Atlantic Balloon Race is June 4 – 6, 2026
Last year was our year. We set our alarms for 4am so we could make the hour and a half drive in time for the race to start just after sunrise.
We had absolutely no idea what to expect and would have done things a little differently had we had some insight. That’s what this article is for – helping you avoid the same mistakes we made when attending this annual hot air balloon race.
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A Little History: The South’s Oldest Balloon Race
First held in 1974, the Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race attracts pilots from across the South and beyond. The winner of the race is the first balloon to cross I-95, which runs from Maine to Miami.
The shortest possible distance is 225 miles, but the balloons are somewhat at the mercy of the winds to get them to the sea.
What to Expect at the Helen to the Atlantic Balloon Race
As I said, we had no idea what to expect when we pulled into Helen at 6:30am. Parking is available on the launch field for $20, but we weren’t sure if there would still be space. So, we parked in the closest public lot for $10.
I should clarify that close is a relative term. 😕 After walking over a half mile and finding plenty of available parking on the launch field, we decided that next year we would be forking out the cash to park closer.
Pedestrian entry is only $1. Just be sure to bring cash for entry, whether you enter the field on foot or in your car. Fees are cash only.
The whole atmosphere was excited if not a little sleepy being so early in the morning. It reminded me of an old fashioned neighborhood block party. Several groups had set up camp chairs around their cars, almost like a tailgate party. A few kids were even playing soccer.
The launch field is roped off until all the balloon teams arrived and claimed their spot. Balloons are transported in large trucks with trailers and it would be way to dangerous to allow people to walk around before all the vehicles are parked.
But, once everyone is set the magic begins. The pilots begin inflating the giant balloons with fans that blow cool air. Once the balloon takes shape, burners are ignited to finish the job. It is breathtaking to watch that process up close!
When all is said and done, the balloons tower 9 to 11 stories tall!
What to Do at the Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race
As you can expect, flying a hot air balloon is dependent on the weather. Unfortunately, the weather was not cooperating the year we went and the balloons weren’t able to launch for the race. A couple tried to fly, but we were told they landed in a nearby field when winds pushed them west instead of east.
I’m sure the pilots were disappointed, But, this actually turned out to be a bonus for the spectators. We had more time to gawk at the massive balloons and enjoy the overall experience.
Walk the Launch Field
After all the balloon trucks are parked in their launch spot, the public is allowed to mingle with the crews as the balloons are inflated. Take advantage of the chance to get up close to the balloons and talk to the pilots. Many are happy to share their stories and their love of ballooning.
Because the weather put a literal damper on the race, we had lots of time to wander. The balloons were inflated for several hours while we got to walk around the launch field.
Take a Tethered Ride
Take a ride up in one of the balloons while staying securely connected to the ground. This is a great option for families or if you just want some pictures from a really cool angle. The cost is about $20 and most only take cash, so come prepared.
Tailgate For The Day
Well over 100 people had their own tailgate parties set up to watch the festivities. While the Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race is set to launch at 7am, several balloons will remain at the field for the tethered rides. And, more balloon activities are scheduled for 6pm.
Planning Your Trip: The Basics
Helen is about 90 minutes north of Atlanta. Arrive early—traffic can get heavy, especially on launch mornings. We live just north of Atlanta and drove up that morning, but you can always stay in Helen the night before.
Getting There
From Atlanta: Head north on GA-400 and follow it until it ends in Dahlonega. From there, pick up US-19 North and continue on GA-75 Alt/GA-17 into Helen. It’s about a 90-minute drive, depending on traffic.
From Chattanooga: Take I-75 South towards Atlanta. Near Dalton, pick up US-76 East to Ellijay. From Ellijay, continue on GA-52 East to Dahlonega, then follow GA-75 Alt/GA-17 north to Helen. This route takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
From Greenville, SC: Head north on I-85 to GA-985/US-23 North. Continue through Gainesville, then follow GA-384 North to GA-75 North, which takes you straight into Helen. Expect a drive of about 2.5 hours.
From Asheville, NC: Take US-23 South to US-441 South through Clayton, Georgia. In Clayton, pick up US-76 West to Hiawassee, then head south on GA-17/GA-75 right into Helen. This drive takes around 2.5 hours.
Parking
You have three options for parking at the Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race.
Launch Field: Parking is available around the launch field for $20. Plan to get there early if you want to park here though. People start arriving as early as 4:30 am and once the lot fills up, you’ll have to turn around to find a spot in town. But, you can always take a nap in your car while you wait for the pilot teams to arrive
Helen Public Parking Lots: Helen has several public parking lots near the launch field. Rates are $10 and proceeds go to maintaining the city’s parks. This is a cheaper option and puts you in a central location so you can visit Helen after the race. But, be prepared – the walk is about 1/2 mile. And, while its downhill for most of the way to the launch field – don’t forget you have to walk back!
Hotel Parking: If you are staying in Helen, you can just leave your car at the hotel and walk to the launch field. There are several options close by, but you’ll still likely be walking a mile or more.
Where to Stay in Helen
Speaking of hotels, Helen has everything from Bavarian inspired hotels to charming AirBnBs to cozy mountain cabins. I think next time, we’ll book a room for the night before so we don’t have to get up at 4am on race day!
What To Bring: Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Festival Essentials
- Camera or Smartphone: The balloons at sunrise are a photographer’s dream.
- Sunscreen and Hat: Mornings are cool, but the sun warms up fast.
- Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking between launch areas, vendors, and downtown.
- Layers: Mountain mornings can be chilly, but afternoons get warm.
- Cash: Parking fees and pedestrian entry are cash only.
Don’t forget water for your pup! This travel water bottle is mess free and so easy!
Beyond the Balloons: Exploring Helen
When the balloons are high in the sky (or on pause for the day), take time to explore Helen’s Bavarian-inspired downtown. First-timers love:
- Tubing on the Chattahoochee River: A classic way to cool off.
- Shopping and Dining: Browse local shops and indulge in German pretzels or craft beer.
- Hiking: Nearby trails like Anna Ruby Falls offer easy access to waterfalls and mountain views.
