Have you ever been up in a hot air balloon? For most of you, the answer is probably no. I prefer to keep my feet on the ground, but I am glad that others enjoy hot air ballooning so we can all experience it.
Above and beyond. That is the appropriate theme for the 2021 National Balloon Classic, which starts today in Indianola and runs through Aug. 7. It is an incredible nine-day event that is one of those “Iowa things” that everyone should experience.
Back in the early 1990s, when Jolene and I were dating, we made efforts to attend as many local celebrations as we could. The Tulip Festival in Pella. Covered Bridges Festival in Winterset. Sweet Corn Festival in Adel. And, of course, the National Balloon Classic in Indianola. We didn’t know where to go or what to do, but we couldn’t help but be in awe over these spectacles in the sky. So we bought a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken and reclined on the hood of my Jeep on a Warren County gravel road and watched in amazement. I am not recommending that approach, and the event organizers and county sheriff certainly wouldn’t either. The experience is much better at the field where you can also enjoy live music, fireworks, food concessions and more.
If you are interested, you should know that evening flights are scheduled for 6:30 p.m., depending, of course, on cooperating weather. Head east on Highway 92 and look for the National Balloon Classic Memorial Balloon Field. Gates and parking open at 4 p.m. Be sure to bring lawn chairs or blankets, and while you are at it, grab some sunscreen and bug spray, too.
Please note that food cannot be brought in from the outside, so polish off that bucket of KFC before you arrive.
Have a fantastic Friday, and thanks for reading.
