The Carolina BalloonFest is way more fun than we thought it’d be when we first went. We’d seen the hot-air balloons drifting over the 77 while we were on our way to northern soccer tourneys. So pretty! We were intrigued.

Perception: Sitting around a big field watching hot air balloons floating around.

Reality: Sure, it’s that, but you can also talk to the balloonists and learn all kinds of cool stuff about how and why they do it. They’re super friendly and you can see all the equipment and baskets and everything. Of course there are food trucks, but there’s also live music and, well, it’s just a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Get more details here.