The One Of A Kind Festival You Won't Find Anywhere But Iowa
By Rachel Morey Flynn
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Published April 14, 2017
Are you ready for a truly unique Iowa experience? This one of a kind festival has been one of the most popular in the state, for a long time.
The 2017 Balloon Classic will take place in Indianola, Iowa.
The balloon field address is 15335 Jewell Street, east of Indianola on highway 92. Scheduled dates for this incredible event are July 28th through August 5th. The gates open at 5am. This giant hot air balloon festival has been an Iowa tradition for more than 40 years.
Enjoy fireworks, live bands, amazing food, a kids' play area, and the much-anticipated Nite Glow Extravaganza.
Wanna go for a ride?
It's possible at the National Balloon Classic. Rides are offered each morning and evening of the event if the weather cooperates. You'll need to schedule your ride in advance, though. Galena On The Fly, Inc is the official balloon ride operator. You can reach them at 815-777-2747.
There's live music on the Classic stage each night of the festival.
If you really want a hand-on experience, you can volunteer to help the crews for the 2017 festival. Email becky@nationalballoonclassic.com for more information.
If you want to stay the night in the area, you can camp near Indianola at Fairview Park, Lake Ahquabi State Park, or Pickard Park. Camping isn't an option on the Balloon Field.
If camping's not your style, the Country Inn and Suites and The Corn Crib B&B are both close to the festival.
This incredible jump at the National Balloon Classic features the Des Moines Skydivers group.
They make a dramatic entrance to the festival, each year. Expect to see them on the first night of the festival.
This Hot Air Balloon Festival is one of the longest and largest hot air balloon events in the Midwest.
Morning admission is free, and evening admission is $5 for people over 6 years old. Parking is free, too.
You can really feel the excitement during the Nite Glow and Nite Glow Extravaganza.
Guests are invited to the launch area for a closer look at the inflated balloons.
Balloons fly over Des Moines during the kick-off.
It's a breathtaking thing to witness.
The best view is from the sky, of course.
Balloon ride reservation spots fill quickly, so get your name in early if you are interested in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
With almost 100 balloons, including some "special shape" balloons, this event is a thrilling and unique experience.
So, do you think you "get carried away" this summer at the National Balloon Classic?
Are there any other amazing Iowa festivals we should know about? Tell us about them in the comments.
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