Balloon fest soars back to Shawnee

SHAWNEE − Anticipated to be the largest balloon festival in the state, the FireLake Fireflight Balloon Fest is set to return in August, featuring live performers, giant kites, food trucks, familyfriendly activities, a display of 30 hot air balloons and more. Admission to the event is free, and it is open to the public.

The two-day festival launches at 4 p.m. Aug. 10 at the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Powwow Grounds, on Heritage Road west of S Gordon Cooper Drive. Tethered balloon rides will begin at 6 p.m. both days, while balloon glows light up at 8:30 p.m. The festivities will include a kids’ zone, petting zoo, carnival and live music. A limited number of commercial balloon flights are available for $250 and must be booked in advance.

The events begin early Aug. 11 with the first of several kite performances by the Austin End of the Line Kite Team at 6:45 a.m., followed by fun flights, balloon competitions and commercial rides. The FireLake Fireflight Balloon Fest 5K race will start at 7 a.m. Aug. 11 at the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Cultural Heritage Center and FireLake Golf Course, 1899 S Gordon Cooper Drive.

Entry to the FireLake Fireflight Balloon Fest is free, and limited RV parking is available for $50 per night with a two-night minimum. For event schedules, 5K registration, directions and more, go to FirelakeBalloonFest.com.