SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. — On Saturday, the Nearest Green Distillery in Bedford County will transform the distillery grounds into their very own world’s fair complete with hot air balloons, live music, carnival games, local artists, food, and, of course, cocktails made with Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey for the first annual Nearest Green Distillery Balloon Festival.
The inaugural family-friendly event will take place on Saturday, September 30 beginning at 1 p.m.
The main attraction will be dozens of hot air balloons scattered throughout the 432-acre distillery footprint. Guests will get a chance to ride in a hot air balloon and view one of the distillery’s famous “copper skies” sunsets. Balloon rides will begin at 4 p.m.
In addition to the hot air balloon rides, outdoor lawn and carnival-style games, and a kids zone will offer lots of opportunities for fall family fun. There will also be a local artist showcase highlighting some one the best Tennessee talent including multiple artists from southern, middle Tennessee.
American Idol finalist and local gal, HunterGirl, will perform live at the event at 2 p.m. The Franklin County native recently released her first album, Ain’t About You, in October. She and fellow American Idol alum Noah Thompson will co-headline a cross country tour beginning on October 27 – so the Nearest Green performance may be the last chance to see her locally for several months. To learn more about that tour, visit this link. That performance will take place just outside, the Humble Baron Bar, and organizers suggest bringing a lawn chair.
Admission to the event is free and food and beverage will be available for purchase. The distillery will also be open for tours, which begin at 9 a.m. each Saturday. The Nearest Green Distillery is located at 3125 US 231 in Shelbyville. For more information about the distillery, click here. •
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