New Jersey Lottery's Festival of Ballooning 2023
Written by Brittany G.
Photo Credits to Michael Downey
Join Unique University's own, Michael Downey, at the NJ Lottery Festival of Ballooning! As one of the most photographed events on the East Coast, you'll learn not only how to photograph hot air balloons as they're inflating, launching, and flying up in the air - but you may have the chance to go up in a balloon yourself!
What is the Festival of Ballooning?
The New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning is one of the largest summertime festivals in North America that features hot air balloons from all over the world. It's held annually at the Solberg Airport in Readington, NJ and attracts guests from all over for not only the hot air balloons, but also the music and other family entertainment all weekend.
What is There to Do?
With Unique Photo's special field access at the festival, you'll be away from the crowds, behind the scenes, and free to roam for a variety of unique shots during your selected launch time to take as many photos as you want!
Other than Michael Downey to guide you in taking amazing photographs of the event, there is a variety of entertainment going on all weekend on the fairgrounds. From the balloon being filled and ascending off the ground, there are also performers and plenty to do throughout each day! Here is some of what you can expect for the exciting 40th Anniversary:
- Thrill Show
- Magicians
- Jugglers
- Concerts All Weekend
- Amusement Rides
- Sunday Morning Yoga
- Sunday 5K Run
For even more specifics on who will be performing, check out the full weekend schedule here!
Plan Ahead and Be Prepared
With an event so large, it's important to be prepared for a whole day of fun!
- The Earlier the Better
Like any event, safety is a top priority, so be prepared when entering the grounds to have your bags unzipped/opened as all bags will be subject to inspection before entering. If you plan to have your bag unzipped and prepared before getting to the gates, it will make for a quick and easy check while going through the screening process! - Dress for the Weather
Even though the morning balloon ascents tend to be cooler weather, be mindful as the day progresses it will become warmer and the sun will be out. Be sure to wear something light and comfortable alongside comfortable shoes for plenty of walking! You can also pack sunscreen to protect your skin and UV protective sunglasses to make viewing the balloons easier on your eyes. - Be Alert
Pay attention to Festival signage around the fairgrounds! Follow the signage and directional signage to expedite arriving at the correct parking lots, and being alert to what areas you are and are not permitted in as some may be off limits to the public for safety reasons. - Pack Appropriately
Pack the essentials but leave valuables that are unneccessary at home. There are items that will be premitted on the grounds but some are not - so double check your list to make entering the grounds a breeze!
With a variety of unique food and beverage venders available throughout the day and the New Jersey-based Concessionaire, Greenlight Food Service, there will be plenty to eat, drink, and enjoy!
Unique Photo Specialty Tickets
Unique University is offering 2 different ticket packages in tandem with the lecture you have to prepare for the New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning! You have the option between the Behind the Scenes Pass and the VIP Pass. Both of the passes will allow attendees to photograph balloons in a specialty access area.
With the Behind the Scenes Pass (General Registration) attendees will have a seminar at our Fairfield NJ Store Location letting you know the best gear to bring and some tips and tricks on photographing the balloons. In addition to the lecture, you receive a General Admission Ticket and Field Pass of one launch behind the scenes - not including onsite parking (10$).
With the VIP Registration attendees will also attend a seminar at our Fairfield NJ Store Location with the Behind the Scenes Access Pass to take photos of the balloons. They also will receive a VIP Parking Pass, a VIP Sky Club Pass, and a scheduled Morning Balloon Ride for Saturday or Sunday. The Sky Club Pass specifically acts as your general admission to the Balloon Festival and it also grants you access to a seated area with private restrooms for the duration of the day attending.
Don't miss out on capturing breathtaking visuals of balloons from around the world! We can't wait to see you there, and be sure to be on the lookout for Unique Photo's Penguin Balloon as it's back by popular demand!
For a glimpse of what to expect at the New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning check out Unique Photo's 2022 Recap Video Here!
For more information on the New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning, visit them online here.