How to resolve AdBlock issue? With the exception of the occasional blast from the burner to keep the balloon afloat, riding in a hot air balloon is a serene and breathtaking experience—one for the bucket list.
This weekend, residents will be able to witness and experience the thrill of hot air balloons with the 41st annual Adirondack Balloon Festival. There will be opportunities to watch them as they are inflated, the massive shapes coming to life and slowly rising, lifting the basket upright and when released from the ropes, gracefully rising into the skies and slowly moving with the currents of wind. There will also be opportunities to ride in one (for a fee), try your photography skills, shop local vendors set up on site and marvel at their beauty.
This year will bring in some new balloons—a hummingbird balloon, one from Wicked, the Broadway musical and an upside down elephant.
“Jewel” the hummingbird will be making her first ever appearance on the East Coast.
“Built this summer in Brazil, the beautiful multicolored bird has appeared only twice in two other events in her short life—one in Canada and the other in Reno, Nevada,” said Mark Donohue, president of the festival’s board of directors.
“We have some very special shapes,” added Pam Benaoski of the Adirondack Balloon Festival Committee. “And Clawd the Crazy Crab is returning.”
Making its Adirondack debut this year will be Stinky the Skunk, owned by John Cavin, a regular festival attendee.
“John’s crowd pleaser, the Purple People Eater will also be participating once again at this year’s event,” noted Donahue.
A not-for-profit organization, the Adirondack Balloon Festival will run from Thursday until Sunday with events such as the opening ceremonies on Thursday at Crandall Park, music by Stoney Creek and a launch of up to 20 balloons.
Following will be the Glens Falls Block Party that will feature a walk-about balloon, balloon baskets on display, a car show and children’s activities.
One of the most visually stunning events is the Saturday night Moonglow. Around 20 balloons will inflate as darkness falls, the red orange flames from the heaters roaring into the neck of the balloons, illuminating them. Benaoski suggested attendees bring flash- lights to the event to help them navigate around.
Another exciting event is the almost simultaneous launch of over 100 balloons on Saturday. In addition, over a dozen balloonists will be offering rides, costing between $175 to $210 depending on the pilot. Pictures of the balloons that are offering rides can be seen at www.adirondackballoonfest.org/balloons.asp. The balloons with their telephone numbers posted are the ones offering riders.
The Adirondack Balloon Festival is operated totally by volunteers and relies on community support for funding. For over 40 years the festival has been free of charge to the public to attend and it attracts between 125,000 to 150,000 people to the area.
For more information, visit www.adirondackballoonfest.org or call (518) 792-2600.
