About Us

More Than Balloons

A Mission of Hope

The Hot Air Affair is more than a hot air balloon festivalit’s a celebration of hope, resilience, and community. Every Labor Day Weekend, thousands gather in Anderson County to experience breathtaking hot air balloons, live entertainment, local vendors, and family-friendly activities, all while supporting local cancer patients and their families through the Cancer Association of Anderson. 

Our Story

Where It All Began

What began as a unique fundraising event has grown into one of Anderson County’s most anticipated annual traditions, bringing together survivors, caregivers, volunteers, sponsors, businesses, and community members for a weekend with a purpose. 

The First Flight
The inaugural Hot Air Affair launched at Rocky River Plantation, bringing hot air balloons and a mission to support the Cancer Association of Anderson together for the first time.
Growing Every Year
Attendance, entertainment, vendors, sponsors, and community partnerships continued to grow, expanding the event's impact on local cancer patients and their families.
An Upstate Tradition
Held every Labor Day Weekend at the Anderson Civic Center Balloon Launch Field, The Hot Air Affair has become one of the Upstate's most anticipated community events, celebrating hope while giving back.
May 2018
2019–Present
Today

Why We Rise

Every Balloon Has a Purpose

At its heart, The Hot Air Affair exists for one reason: to support local cancer patients and their families. 

Every balloon that rises, every sponsorship secured, every volunteer who gives their time, every vendor who participates, and every guest who attends helps further the mission of the Cancer Association of Anderson. 

Together, we celebrate survivors, honor loved ones, and remind those currently facing cancer that they are never alone.

The Cancer Association of Anderson

Supporting Local
Patients Since

Day One

The Cancer Association of Anderson is the only local cancer charity serving Anderson County. 

Its mission is to reduce the burden of cancer by providing treatment-related financial assistance, emotional support, guidance, referrals, and practical resources for local patients and their families. 

Because the organization serves our local community, support from The Hot Air Affair stays close to home, helping neighbors, friends, coworkers, and loved ones receive assistance when they need it most. 

The Future Is

Bright

As The Hot Air Affair continues to grow, so does its impact. 

With every new partnership, sponsorship, volunteer, and attendee, we’re able to further the mission of the Cancer Association of Anderson and continue building a tradition our community can be proud of. 

Become a Sponsor

Show your commitment to the community while supporting local cancer patients and their families.

Become a Vendor

Connect with thousands of attendees and showcase your business during one of Anderson County's most anticipated annual events.

Volunteer

Join the team that helps make The Hot Air Affair possible and play a direct role in supporting our mission.