The Great Falls Balloon Festival (now branded the L/A Balloon Festival, presented by Emerson Toyota) is a free annual hot-air balloon festival held at Simard-Payne Memorial Park on the Androscoggin River in Lewiston, Maine. The 2026 edition runs August 21–23 with a "America's 250th" theme. Highlights include morning and evening mass balloon launches (roughly 6am and 6pm), tethered and paid balloon rides, a Maine-made craft vendor fair (Fri–Sun, noon–8pm), festival food booths benefiting local nonprofits, live music on the main stage (Sat–Sun afternoons/evenings), a Family Fun Day, the Motors on Main classic car show, and the traditional Balloon Festival parade through Lewiston and Auburn. Admission and parking are free; balloon rides, food, and vendor purchases carry their own fees. Proceeds support area nonprofits.