Joseph-Michel Montgolfier and Jacques-Étienne Montgolfier created the first hot air balloon that took flight in 1783 on the outskirts of Paris. The Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce celebrates the world's oldest flight technology at the Hudson Valley Hot Air Balloon Festival, launching 100 balloons Friday, July 8 through Sunday, July 10. General admission to the launches and festivities at Barton Orchards in Poughquag costs $10 dollars in advance and limited tickets will be sold at the gate for $12. Barton Orchards also offers limited 45-minute tether flights. In addition, Migliorelli Farm offers free admission and parking to the balloon launches in Tivoli on Friday and Saturday afternoon.
