Smokin’ on Blackshear BBQ & Balloon Festival Soar into Cordele this weekend

Georgia Veterans Memorial Park to Host Thrilling Three-Day Event April 11-13, 2025

CORDELE, Ga. – The skies over Cordele, Georgia, will be filled with vibrant colors and the enticing aroma of sizzling barbecue this spring, as the Georgia Veterans Memorial Park hosts an unforgettable Hot Air Balloon Festival and BBQ Competition from April 11-13, 2025.

This exciting three-day event will bring together hot air balloon enthusiasts, competitive barbecue teams, and families for an unforgettable weekend of entertainment, delicious food, and breathtaking views.

Event Highlights:

• Hot Air Balloon Rides and Displays: Watch in awe as dozens of hot air balloons take flight each morning, filling the sky with vibrant hues. Guests will have the chance to enhance their experience with exclusive opportunities to book tethered balloon rides during the evening Balloon Glow. Watch as the balloons twinkle and glow against the night sky, creating a magical atmosphere for a family-friendly stroll through the event.
• For a truly unique perspective, don’t miss the chance to book a sunrise hot air balloon ride, offering stunning views of Cordele and the surrounding Lake Blackshear area.
• BBQ Competition: Some of the region’s best pitmasters will compete in a fierce BBQ showdown. From mouthwatering ribs and smoky pulled pork to succulent brisket, the competition will showcase the very best of Southern BBQ. Guests can sample the flavors that fill the air! Winners announced at 4pm to see who the best of the best!
• Family-Friendly Activities: The event will feature a variety of activities for all ages, including live music, food vendors, games, and a kids’ zone, making it the perfect weekend for families to come together and enjoy the springtime weather.
• Veterans Memorial Recognition: As the event takes place at the Georgia Veterans Memorial Park, pay a special tribute to veterans by honoring their service and sacrifice and taking a stroll through the aircraft that bless our park. The park’s historical significance will add an extra layer of meaning to the event.

Event Details:

·         All Balloon Activities are Weather permitting

·         Location: Georgia Veterans Memorial Park, Cordele, GA

·         Admission: Admission is free to attend the event. $5 Parking Fee per vehicle, unless you have an annual state park pass. Hot Air Balloon rides must be prebooked through www.Aviation-Ranch.com and tethered balloon rides can be purchased during the event.

·         Website: Smokin on Blackshear BBQ and Balloon Festival | Lake Blackshear Resort & Golf Club – Cordele, GA

·         Balloon Rides: www.Aviation-Ranch.com

“We are thrilled to bring this spectacular event to Georgia Veterans Memorial Park,” said Aviation Ranch, Hot Air Balloon Coordinator. “The combination of hot air balloons, BBQ, and family fun promises to be an event like no other in the region, and we look forward to welcoming visitors from near and far to experience the southern hospitality of Cordele!”

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