Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the dates and times of the Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally?
A: The Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally is an annual event the first weekend in August. The Rotary’s 29th Annual Hot Air Balloon Rally will take place Friday August 6thm and run through Sunday August 8th 2010. The event opens at 4:00 p.m. Friday and ends around 10:00 a.m. Sunday.
Q: Can you give me a schedule for the performers?
A: We have a list of performers but not an exact schedule. The times are subject to change due to safety, weather, and operational requirements. Live entertainment is always scheduled for Friday and Saturday evenings. For an updated listing of performers and approximate stage times (click here).
Q: Where can I get General Admission Tickets?
A: General Admission is FREE – you do not need a ticket. We do ask for your generous donations to help with our community building efforts and support this event! Food & Beverages, Carnival Amusements, Helicopter Rides, & Tethered Hot Air Balloon Rides ALL have charges.
Q: Can I use my credit card at the Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally?
A: No, credit cards or checks are not accepted. Cash only.
Q: Can I leave and re-enter the Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally?
A: Yes, admission is FREE.
Q: Are Coolers or backpacks permitted?
A: Unfortunately, due to safety concerns, coolers, tote bags, backpacks, or other containers may not be allowed on site. In addition, purses, camera cases, diaper bags, etc. may be subject to search. However, the Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally does permit the entry of very small coolers if they are carrying life-saving medicines (insulin, etc.).
Q: Are cameras and video recorders allowed?
A: Yes, cameras and video recorders are permitted along with camera bags.
Q: Can I bring a lawn chair or blanket?
A: Absolutely, there is limited seating on the field and guests are invited to bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. However, tents and awnings of any kind are NOT permitted.
Q: Do you have any Bleacher Seating?
A: No. Please feel free to bring a blanket or lawn chairs for your personal use. Once again, these items may be subject to search.
Q: Can I bring an umbrella?
A: Yes hand-held umbrellas are permitted. Large beach umbrellas or umbrellas placed in the ground are NOT permitted nor are any other tent or awning structures.
Q: Are pets allowed?
A: No, pets are NOT allowed. (Certified service animals are permitted.) The Health Department prohibits pets at a food festival.
Q: What can I bring to the Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally?
A:
- Lawn Chairs
- Strollers
- Cameras
- Blankets
- Hand-held umbrellas
NOTE: It is recommended that Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally patrons bring only necessary items on their person and limit the size and contents of carry-in items to those that are essential. PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT ALL CARRY-IN ITEMS AND PERSONS ARE SUBJECT TO SEARCH. ALL UNATTENDED BAGS AND ITEMS WILL BE REMOVED FROM THE PREMISES.
Q: What items can NOT be brought to the Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally?
A:
- No Smoking
- No Alcohol
- No Coolers
- No Loose Ice
- No Cans
- No Glass
- No Pets
- No Weapons Of Any Kind
- No Tents
- No Awnings
- No Cooking Equipment
- No Bicycles
- No Skateboards
Q: What if I get hungry during the Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally?
A: The Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally concession vendors feature a wide variety of food and beverage options for your enjoyment and convenience.
Q: Is there shade?
A: The Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally is held under an open sky. Patrons are encouraged to plan accordingly with hand-held umbrellas, sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats. Very limited shade can be found under the Rotary tent but there is no "shaded area" per se.
Q: Is there an ATM or Bank Machine on site?
A: No, ATMs are not available on Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally grounds. However, there are two banks in town with ATMs both within walking distance of the field.
Q: What happens if it rains?
A: It takes more than a few raindrops to stop the Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally! The Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally WILL take place Friday, Saturday, and Sunday as scheduled. Over the past 27 years this event has never been canceled due to weather. The Hot Air Balloon Pilots have the final decision on launch based on weather. Also, schedules may be shifted and/or delayed for periods to avoid certain weather conditions. In addition, entertainment, amusements, exhibits, and food locations will be open regardless of weather conditions.
Q: Are there First Aid facilities on-site?
A: Yes. Medical Personnel will be on site and a First Aid Center will be provided for Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally patrons.
Q: Are there restroom facilities on-site?
A: Yes. Port-a-potties are located at the South end of the field.
Q: Can I take a ride in a balloon at the Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally?
A: All of the hot air balloons at this rally are sponsored and therefore not available for rides to the public. However, tethered rides in a hot air balloon will be available for a fee both Friday and Saturday. We recommend a tethered ride for a wonderful and memorable experience. NOTE: Each $5 cash donation made to the Pittsfield Rotary is eligible to be entered into our prize drawing for a FREE Hot Air Balloon Ride on Sunday Morning. Must be present at the drawing to win. Drawing to be held on Saturday evening immediately preceding the Fireworks. Other conditions and restrictions apply. See complete contest rules at the Rotary Tent for details.
Q: What time does the field close?
A: Drake Field will close to the public at 11:00 pm on both Friday and Saturday nights and re-open at 5:30 am.
Q: Can you direct me to a place to stay during the weekend?
A: For a list of accommodations in the Merrimack Valley Region – City of Concord, New Hampshire, Click Here.
Q: Will the Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally be televised?
A: No. If you want to see the spectacular Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally, you have to be there.
Q: Is parking free?
A: Yes, parking in the Three Rotary lots is FREE. Other parking is available and there may be a charge as local community groups often provide parking as a fund-raiser that is independent from Rotary. Shuttle service to/from the field from Rotary parking lots is provided for $1 per person per ride on Saturday. Friday night & Sunday morning parking is free and no shuttle service is provided. Rotary lots are at Globe Firesuit Manufacturing, the Elementary School, and the High School. Follow the Blue and Red signs from Rte 28.
Q: What about handicapped parking?
A: Handicapped parking is available on a first come first parked basis. Please plan to arrive no later than 3:00 p.m. for parking. Handicapped parking is located on Barnstead Road just North of Rite Aid in the vacant lot across from the boat ramp; in the parking lot on Fayette Street off Depot Street; and through a local community group at the Pittsfield Weaving Company parking lot. There may be a charge for parking in lots available through local community groups.
Q: Can I sell novelty items while walking around the field?
A: All of the vendors at the Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally are required to register in advance and pay a fee for their exclusive participation at this event. We strictly prohibit sales of any goods or services by anyone who has not registered. To contact the vendor registrar (click here).