Soaring High: The 40th Annual New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning

Howard Freeman, the mastermind behind the highly anticipated 40th Annual New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning joins the show. Buckle up as Howard and host Mike Ham take you on a journey through the history and highlights of this iconic event.Discover how the festival, which originated in 1983 with 25 balloons, has evolved into the largest summertime balloon music festival in North America, drawing in a staggering 175,000 visitors. Howard Freeman unveils the enchanting experiences awaiting attendees, from breathtaking balloon rides to awe-inspiring shapes like Darth Vader and Yoda floating in the sky.Get ready to groove to the rhythm of renowned musical acts, including Everclear, KC and the Sunshine Band, Fitz and the Tantrums, and the first-ever Indian performer, Partha Oza. Prepare to be amazed by their spectacular performances and get lost in the magical ambiance of the festival.Howard and Mike dive into the festival schedule, revealing the low-impact 5K race, balloon lift-offs at sunrise and sunset, and an array of family-friendly activities that will keep everyone entertained. They emphasize the festival's inclusivity by offering general admission tickets valid for any day of the event, ensuring flexibility for attendees to choose their preferred date.Relish in Howard's personal anecdotes and unforgettable moments from past festivals, such as hosting the Jonas Brothers before their meteoric rise to stardom and featuring extraordinary balloon displays like Darth Vader and Yoda. They also discuss the festival's positive impact on the state of New Jersey and its local community, including raising over $3.3 million for non-profit organizations.To be part of this extraordinary event, secure your tickets now and witness the New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning's 40th anniversary in all its splendor. Don't miss the chance to experience the joy, excitement, and sheer wonder that await you at this remarkable celebration of ballooning and music. Join Howard Freeman and Mike Ham on this thrilling episode, and get ready to soar high above the Garden State.For more information and ticket purchases, visit balloonfestival.com. Stay connected with the festival through their social media channels using the hashtag #NJBalloonFest.Thank you to our sponsors:UCS Advisors: ucsgreatness.comBoxcar: boxcar.com (When you download the app use code "GS25" for $25 off your first ride)Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.comShanghai Jazz: shanghaijazz.comMayo Performing Arts Center: mayoarts.org/events-calendarNJspots: NJspots.comOperation K9 Beethoven: operationk9beethoven.comContact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.comSupport the Show.