5 Things You Need to Know About 'Aloft'

Aloft, formerly known as Freedom Weekend Aloft, kicks off today and runs the entire Memorial Day Weekend.

Organizers for the expanded and improved event are hoping to attract 100,000 people to Simpsonville's Heritage Park, located at 861 SE Main Street.

Planning to go? Here are 5 things you need to know:

1. Know what to expect. It will still feature its iconic morning and evening hot-air balloon launches (there's 80 balloons this year), but there's more to do this year.

So what's new? Festival-goers can experience a zipline inside Heritage Park, along with helicopter rides, model airplane races, tethered hot-air balloon rides, stand-up paddle boarding, craft beer, wine tastings, amusement rides, upgraded and continuous musical entertainment, greater food options, and more, organizers say. 

2. Know the cost. Tickets this year will cost $12 daily before 4 p.m., then $15 after. Children under 12 are free. Parking will cost you an extra $5.

3. Know when to see the balloons.  The hot-air balloon launches are a major draw at Aloft, but if you go at the wrong time you'll miss them. The balloons launch in the mornings and evenings. Here's the schedule:

Friday, May 24, 2013 – 6 pm – 8 pm
Saturday, May 25, 2013 – 7 am - 9 am  AND  6 pm – 8 pm
Sunday, May 26, 2013 – 6 pm – 8 pm
Monday, May 27, 2013 – 7 am - 9am  AND  6 pm – 8 pm

And what about the schedule as a whole? The festival is open from 4-11 p.m. Fri., May 24; 7 am.-11 p.m. Sat., May 25; noon-11 p.m. Sun., May 26; and, 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Mon., May 27. 

4. Know what NOT to bring. And any bags are subject to search at any time. This year, as well, smoking will not be allowed under city law, and pets are prohibited, unless they are service animals. 

What else should stay at home? Coolers (unless they carry medical equipment), cans, glass bottles or containers, Thermoses, Pop up and patron tents, no poles or stakes of any kind, grills, wagons, umbrellas, weapons (including knives), Mace, pepper spray, fireworks, noisemakers and air horns

5. Know what's going on — and when. Yes, there's an app for that! There's going to be a lot happening at all times, so if it gets overwhelming to keep track of it all, simply download the Aloft app for your smartphone.

The mobile app is available for iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad. 

Finally, don't forget to take a camera. If you do, share your pics with Patch! We'd love to feature them on the site.

For more info, visit Aloft's official website.