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The 16th Annual Balloon Fest takes off this weekend – bringing fun, food and entertainment to Lycoming County.
The event will be held Saturday 10am-9pm and Sunday 10am-3pm
Hot air balloon launches and other events weather permitting in the early morning and early evening, including airshow attractions such as Paradigm Aviator, Geronimo Skydiving, Whiskey 7, BT-13 Warbirds; Jason Flood Airshow, and ATV Rally; BMX, Heavy equipment rodeos, puppets, shows, vendors and laser shows will begin over the weekend. The Laser Show was choreographed to music by Daryl Lewis, owner of Datman Productions.
“It’s a unique, family-friendly, affordable event for everyone,” said Sandy Spencer, chair of the festival committee.
“Our entertainers are professionals and one has to travel far to find an event that offers so many events and activities at such an affordable price. And parking is free,” Spencer said.
Balloonfest began in 2006 when the incoming Rotary president was looking for ways to increase membership and engagement.
“He sees the vision of a balloon festival as a part of what people want to be a part of. What started with balloons, vendors and some entertainment has grown into something bigger,” Spencer said.
It was first an event of the Rotary Club of Montousville, and a few years later, the Rotary Clubs of Hughesville, Muncie and Williamsport also joined.
“Last year, the Commission took steps to become an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on STEM learning and how these subjects affect aviation,” Spencer said. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it when it all comes together and we see people enjoying what a small group of volunteers have created.”
Balloonfest committee needs volunteers.
“We do need some [volunteers] You can register online to join our committee,” Spencer said. “We certainly want to thank those who made it happen. Volunteers who come to our door to work, work together throughout the year, and most importantly, our loyal and generous sponsors. Without sponsors using their money, services, products, etc. To support this event, we couldn’t be more affordable and provide everything we do. Thank you so much.”
Attractions for vendors, hot air balloons and Whiskey 7 rides can still be booked online.
“Advance tickets can be purchased online or at the box office until 5pm on Thursdays. Tickets are slightly more expensive, but tickets can also be purchased at the door,” Spencer said.
We encourage anyone interested in the event to follow Balloonfest on Facebook for any updates.
“If you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for on Facebook, check out our website for answers and links (volunteering, hot air balloon rides, W7 rides). Most of the people on the committee work full time, we Your time is precious. If you could do your part by checking out the site first, we would really appreciate it.”
To learn more about Balloonfest, visit their Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/balloonfestairshow or their website https://www.balloonfestairshow.com.