The Ashland Balloonfest returns for the twenty third year, June 28 – 30, with live entertainment, children’s activities, a variety of foods offered, and tethered balloon rides at $10 per person and $30 for a family of four. Located at Freer Field in Ashland, the event is offering some new experiences this year, for those who think they’ve seen it all.
The festival is designed to allow attendees to take in the spectacle and experience the balloons firsthand. Misty Miller, vice president of the Ashland Balloonfest, shared that her first flight in a balloon, was “a little scary. But once you get up off the ground, it’s like you’re on a solid platform and the world is moving away from you. It’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before.” This year, weather permitting, there will once again be opportunities to fly and take in the Friday and Saturday night balloon glow.
“I would definitely say, prepare for the weather. Also, bring your lawn chairs and blankets.” Miller continued, “I would say the balloon glow is the most popular. It’s going to be interactive this year. Spectators will have the opportunity to purchase, [small] balloons themselves that glow.”
“The other thing I’m excited for and I’ve said for many years, Sunday morning is the best kept secret of Ashland Balloon Fest. Sunday morning is fabulous to come out. Usually, you’ll see balloons come really close to the target you’ll see on the field. I mean, like feet away, and drop their beanbag. Where usually that whole spectator field is full, I’ve seen them land there, and people just start coming up and helping them catch the balloon. So we’re going to enhance that this year.” The best kept secret of Sunday is going to have even more to offer the community this year. To those who come out to Freer Field between 6 and 9am, “We’re having a pancake breakfast, all you can eat pancake breakfast, and a worship service.”
A recent press release from the event promised to “be an outing with the entire family in mind.”
