Balloon fest soars back to 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.