Champaign County Balloon Fest returns Friday, Saturday

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Hot air balloons light up the night during the 2022 Champaign County Balloon Fest. (SUBMITTED PHOTO)


The skies above Urbana will be full of color Friday, Sept. 8, and Saturday, Sept. 9, as a variety of hot air balloons take flight during the fifth annual Champaign County Balloon Fest.

The “Hot Air Affair” takes place at Grimes Field from 5 to 9 p.m. both days, with ticket prices of $3 for adults and $1 for children.

Join the festivities and select tasty fare from various food trucks, enjoy the music spun by the DJ, visit the Grimes Flying Lab or partake of a beer or glass of wine from the adult beverage area.

The bouncy house is always a favorite for the youngsters and additional activities will keep them busy.

Take your lawn chair and end the evening with the balloon glow scheduled for 8 to 8:30 p.m.

“This amazing display of light and color is sure to please participants of all ages,” organizers said.

Balloon launch and glow are all dependent upon the weather and decision to proceed is made by the balloon meister, a qualified FFA pilot and weather specialist– not the Balloon Festival Committee.

Attendees are reminded that Grimes Field is a non-smoking area and no pets are allowed.

The Balloon Fest – A Hot Air Affair is an event sponsored by the Grimes Field Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the rich history of the Grimes Field Municipal Airport, and to educating the public about aviation.