The Centralia Balloon Festival is set to make a grand return for its 35th year at Foundation Park this month. The festival promises a lineup of activities including food, crafts, live entertainment, and of course, the sight of hot air balloons soaring through the sky.
Scheduled to take place on Friday, August 16th and Saturday, August 17th from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and on Sunday, August 18th from noon to 6:00 pm, the event will showcase 40 hot air balloons from various parts of the country. Special shapes like Striker, Peg Leg Pete, Lindy, Freedom Flight 4, and Sky Eyes are expected to captivate the audience.
Guests can also look forward to indulging in culinary delights from over 20 food vendors and exploring a wide array of crafts from more than 100 vendors representing the region and beyond.
The festivities will kick off on Friday at 3:00 pm with an opening ceremony by the Centralia High School Band and Choir. The highlight of the evening will be the sight of all hot air balloons taking off from the park at 5:30 pm, followed by tethered balloon rides and a balloon glow at dusk. The night will conclude with a special performance by Taylor Made, a Tribute to Taylor Swift.
Saturday will begin with a performance by rising country artist Kaylee Rose, followed by a veteran’s tribute ceremony at 5:30 pm. Several balloons, including the POW/MIA Veterans Freedom Flight Balloon, are scheduled to take off during the day. The popular all-balloon glow show will take place at 7:30 pm, leading up to the headlining performance by country musician and American Idol alum, Josh Grain.
Sunday’s activities will start at noon with Family Fun Day, offering a range of children’s activities including a selfie scavenger hunt, bounce houses, photo opportunities, and more. The day will feature a Car and Motorcycle Cruise-In at 1:00 pm, followed by Cardboard Boat Races on Catfish Pond at 3:00 pm. Live entertainment and performances throughout the day, culminating in an evening balloon flight at 5:30 pm to close the event.
Please note that all flights and glows are subject to weather conditions. Wristbands for entry are priced at $5 at the gate and can also be purchased in advance online at centraliachamber.com/balloon-fest.
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