A few days ago I awoke to the strangest noise. It sounded like a giant snake was outside my window. I glanced at the clock. 5am. Ugh. I just wanted to go back to sleep. But this noise wouldn't stop. I got up and went outside. There in the sky against the backdrop of the rising sun was a multi-colored hot air balloon floating over our neighborhood.
Ah, I knew instantly what was happening . The Allstate Festival of Balloons.
Every summer here in Oregon there's a weekend where you can look up into the sky and see the most beautiful, colorful hot air balloons floating over the Willamette Valley. Their launch pad is a lovely park not far from our house. The event spans the full weekend with not only the balloons but a BBQ cook off, a Festival of Cars, a fun center with games and face painting. The Allstate Festival of Balloons is a non-profit organization that benefits several local groups, including the neighborhood schools.
Its a beautiful sight to see the glorious balloons suspended in the air. One day, I want to go up in one.
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Sounds like a beautiful sight to see. I love watching hot-air balloons float silently by (not that I've seen too many). I have mixed feelings about going up in one but I have a friend who did and really enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteHi Ellen,
ReplyDeleteThere is something so wistful about a hot air balloon floating along. Thanks for stopping by.
Terri,
ReplyDeleteIt seems as though it was just yesterday, but now that I think back it's probably been almost 15 years ago. My husband and I took a trip to Napa Valley and went on a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards very, very early in the morning. You have to wear something on your head because the fire to make the hot air is really hot. The view is spectacular, and our pilot was very good. He took us high up and then we floated low over some houses. One interesting thing was seeing someone who had neglected their swimming pool. We could see the green moss growing all over in the pool. I wouldn't want to go swimming in that mess. If you ever get the chance, you should definitely go on one.
Hi Terri!
ReplyDeleteI live in Vermont. Every year at the beginning of the summer(mid to late June), there is the Quechee Balloon Festival. It is what it sounds like! This year, I counted about 26 balloons. It is really crazy! I love looking at them and from year-to-year, you start to remember the old balloons and recognize when new ones are added.
A few years ago, my sister and I went on a ride. We were both pretty young(middle school and elementary school I think). It was really fun and I would definitely do it again! I think that it is terribly romantic with the views you get to see.
You should try it!
Hannah
I remember the hot air ballons when I lived in New Mexico.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous pics!
Cheryl
Oh, how fun! I saw a few in the sky years ago, and it's a beautiful sight.
ReplyDeleteBut I don't think I'd ever get the nerve to go up in one!! :)