Upstate celebrates Memorial Day with a hot-air balloon festival

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This Upstate celebration of Memorial Day weekend complete with music, rides, and hot air balloons kicks off today, May 22, and runs through May 25.

So, if you're in the upstate area this holiday weekend stop by the Freedom Weekend Aloft in Simpsonville. 

And they've got a lot to offer: The festival's amphitheater is located right beside the balloon launch making for a multi sensory experience.  Chairman of the Board and the United States Fleet Band will be playing. There will even be Wii challenges, an obstacle course, and a water balloon race to bring you back to your camp days.  For the more adventurous balloon rides are available for $175, call in advance to make a reservation, 864-221-0552.

Hours are 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, Noon to 11 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, and Noon to 8:00 p.m on Monday. It's $7.50 for advance tickets and $10 at the gate. -- Admission is free on Monday, May 25th.

The festival is located in Heritage Park, 861 SE Main Street in Simpsonville.

You can learn loads more about the event in their program (PDF).