If you’re tired of the hot air blowing out of politicians’ mouths during this election cycle, the Harvest Balloon Festival will offer a different take on hot air. Visitors to Sterling on the Lake may find themselves floating through the sky as hot-air balloons launch from Flowery Branch during the annual event from 1-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17. As fall brings many opportunities for gathering and celebrating the changing season, the sixth annual festival will feature autumn traditions along with new activities for a $1.