Festival of Balloons: Floating on Air
May 9th, 2012
Festival of Balloons, photo by Rick Samuelson
Balloons, buoyant and brightly colored, could easily be the universal symbol of happiness. And with the summer coming, the Festival of Balloons (June 22-24) is ready to dot the sky with smiles, as dozens of colorful hot-air craft rise over the scenic landscape southwest of Portland.
Held in Tigard, just a 15-minute drive outside the city, this annual family-friendly affair packs an array of events into three days in late June, kicking off each day with a balloon launch around 6 a.m. (weather permitting). After that, a pancake breakfast lets onlookers fill their bellies while eying the sky, balloon flights float through the afternoon, and classic cars cruise along the streets, while a soccer tournament and running race create a clamor in the park. A beer garden pouring Rogue Ales’ best offerings, live music and rides make for a classic summer day, and each night wraps with a carnival lit by the glow of the colorful, fire-fueled aircraft. It’s down-to-earth fun that will have kids — young and old — soaring with excitement.
