ASHLAND – Windy weather grounded the 33 hot air balloons that were set to take flight Friday for Ashland’s BalloonFest.
A little after 7:30 p.m., the decision was made that the pilots would not be able to take off due to high winds which were gusting up to 15 mph. Organizers held out hope that the Balloon Glow would be able to go on as scheduled later in the night. Eventually, however, the decision was made to instead do a Candlestick Glow, where pilots would shoot their flames into the night sky without the envelopes inflated over the flames.
Misty Miller, public relations chairwoman said the winds were too strong and could have damaged the balloons’ delicate envelopes if they were inflated.
Crowds stuck around to watch as the pilots lighted Freer Field with their propane flames as music played along to their bursts, much like fans are used to during the traditional Balloon Glow.
Saturday’s activities start between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., when pilots will launch and take part in the Balloon Competition. Other activities Saturday include a cornhole tournament, a visit to Freer Field by two medical helicopters, COSI on Wheels, a pilot Meet & Greet and music from Krush. Weather permitting, pilots will compete again around 7 p.m. before a Balloon Glow around 9:30 p.m.
Thursday night, pilots were able to take off in the good weather and put on the Balloon Glow. Read the story and see the photos here.
