When: May 31- June 2.
Where: Helendorf River Inn
A chorus of sounds roar above the small German village of Helen. The heat slowly rises the balloons into the air- all different colors, sizes, and designs laid across them like a uniquely knitted quilt giving a stark contrast against the blue sky. All across the field- people’s shouts echo in unison as the balloons take flight.
Being one of the souths oldest events, roughly 30 balloons will take to the skies to grab the title- trying to race off to make it to I-95 towards the Atlantic. Last years winner, Johnathan Wright from New Mexico made the furthest landing, making it past I-95 and all the way up to Calhoun Falls in South Carolina. Each racer is limited to 40 propane tanks, so, they have to make it last wisely, trying to find the right wind path and altitude. Along the ride each man’s crew will be following in car to help fuel up.
During the three day festival, the hot air balloons will be floating on display for everyone to admire and take pictures of, and, if you are brave enough- ride in one. Why not get over your fear of heights, am I right? While the festival is free, riding in a balloon will cost you. You’ll be tethered to the ground 75 feet up- costing roughly $10.00 a person, and will last around five minutes (7am- 6pm each day).
While in town venture over to the cozy coffee shop, Higher Ground Café to grab an iced latte- or my favorite- the Bee Sting. It’s an espresso with honey, vanilla, and steamed milk froth. You might need that caffeine kick walking around town all day.
Hungry? Want a view while you eat? You’ll love the quaint restaurant under the bridge in town- Trolls Tavern- serving up delicious German and American cuisine alongside local beers. For dessert stroll over to Hansel & Gretel's Candy Kitchen, boasting chocolate turtles with soft caramel that melts in your mouth, warm chocolate fudge, peanut brittle, and a wide spread of truffles- it won’t disappoint...I don’t know about you, but it sounds like the perfect weekend getaway to me.
(Brasstown Bald)
While in town:
-Drive north 45 minutes to Brasstown Bald. It's worth the drive; It’s a spectacular view being the highest point in the state of Georgia.
-Tube down the Chattahoochee River through Helen for on $8.00 a person. (Add on $5.00 to ride the water slide.)
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