Summer is nearly here again, bringing with it hot weather and more activities. One of the most popular things to do over the summer is the hot air balloon festival in July.
“We would definitely recommend attending the festival to both spectators and pilots,” said Jim Barnosky, pilot of the Xcess balloon. “There is a special magic in watching the early morning ascensions and the evening glows, and enjoying all the other attractions and activities at the launch field during the day.”
Other than the balloons, there are plenty of competitions and activities for everyone. People can join mud and grass volleyball tournaments, paddle boarding, fishing, puzzle building competitions, face painting, a drone show, a talent show, and much, much more.
“It’s fun; there’s a lot to do, and why not? Unless you already have plans, it’s a good time,” said Tobias Vigil.
The festival takes place from July 3 to 5, with activities in the morning and evening on the three days of the festival.
“The best part is seeing how much the local community enjoys the festival as part of the July 4th celebration,” said Barnosky.
This is the fourth balloon festival, and each year, more people from different places and new pilots join.
“The festival has improved every year. The city has been able to add more balloons and more activities every year, such as the drone show. They just keep finding ways to make the festival even better every year,” said Barnosky.
Another good way to enjoy the festival is volunteering on a balloon crew. The options are set up, chase crew, take down, and more.
Volunteers sometimes get the chance to ride in a hot air balloon.
“The first time I did chase crew, I was really nervous because I didn’t know what to expect, I didn’t know how we were going to go find these balloons, how we were going to drive,” said Erica Esser, “but I have now been on chase crew for three different balloons and it’s been a lot of fun, and interesting to see how different balloon pilots do things differently.”
“I’ve never been a morning person, never will be a morning person, but getting up for the balloon chase crew is worth it,” said Esser.
“My favorite memory is the smiles on the faces of the crowd every time they watch our balloon leave the ground, and working with our chase crew members to launch and recover it,” said Barnosky.
