Voted by the Southeast Tourism Society as 'One of the Top 20 Festivals In The Southeast' for many years, LakeFest (as it is known locally) attracted nearly 50,000 people in 2024 to view hundreds of attractions including hot air balloons, arts and crafts, live entertainment, music, dancing, and great local and ethnic food. The event culminates in the traditional 'Gathering Of The Boats' and fireworks show on Saturday evening. Boaters take to Buggs Island/Kerr Lake and festival-goers line the shores to see the hot air balloons.