Hot air balloons will rise over the east side of Seneca Lake during a three-day festival planned for Sept. 25-27 at Idol Ridge Winery and Alder Creek Distillery in Lodi.
The first Balloons on the Ridge weekend will feature scheduled sunrise and sunset balloon flights, a nighttime glow show, tethered rides, live music and food at the property at 9059 State Route 414. Admission is free for all ages.
Idol Ridge is organizing the event with Freedom Ballooning and Flynn Propane. Full balloon flights must be reserved online in advance through Freedom Ballooning, while other activities will be available to visitors on the grounds.
Friday opens with music and a balloon glow
Friday's schedule includes a sunset hot air balloon flight and live music by Old World Warblers from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Local bagpiper Heather Jovanelli is scheduled to perform from 8:30 to 9 p.m.
A glow balloon show is planned from 8 to 9 p.m., weather permitting. The winery will also operate an outdoor bar with wine, cocktails, craft beer and nonalcoholic drinks, and a food vendor is expected on site.
Saturday adds tethered rides and pilot talks
Saturday will begin and end with reservable balloon flights at sunrise and sunset. Tethered balloon rides will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis for $25 per ticket, weather permitting.
Visitors will also be able to take free balloon tours and attend question-and-answer sessions with pilots. Mike and Angie will perform from noon to 3 p.m., followed by Roc Street from 4 to 7 p.m.
The outdoor bar and food vendor will return Saturday. Parking will cost $10 for Friday evening and Saturday's activities.
Sunday schedule includes flights and brunch specials
The final day will include sunrise and sunset balloon flights, both requiring advance reservations. Brunch drink specials will be available in the tasting room from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Organizers said all balloon activities are subject to weather conditions. Flight reservations and a complete event schedule are available through the Balloons on the Ridge event page on the Idol Ridge Winery website.
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