Sunday, September 21, 2014

...The Great Forest Park Balloon Race...

The Great Forest Park Balloon Race is a St. Louis staple. It is the largest balloon race of its kind in the world, bringing in ballooning experts and people come from far and wide to cheer on them on. I had never been, so Andy and I packed a lunch and drove to Forest Park for a long afternoon.

We arrived early because I had heard parking could be a bear. We laid on our blanket, surrounded by other picnickers, and took a nap before walking around to the different booths.

The day was warm and sticky, and the sun got hotter as the afternoon wore on. The air was thicker on the launching grounds because of the huge array of people littered across the lawn. I love this diverse city!

The best part: Dogs were allowed!! We brought Buddy, and I think he might have been the best attraction. Every where we went, young and old asked to pet him, and he was so sweet, allowing them to pet him and snuggle him.

Due to high winds, the race was delayed, and some balloons didn't make it off the ground, but the ones that did were sent off with loud cheers and applause from the audience. The way they swayed and tilted and buckled in the wind. What an adventure! Maybe someday we can take a balloon ride.

Here are a few pictures from our day:

Hamlet the Beggin' Strips dog.
(Our "kid" with his favorite mascot!)
This one took forever to get on it's way.
I honestly wondered if this one would tip over.
Pretty site
This one landed in our condo common area this week.

It's awe-inspiring to be so close to these delicate giants. It brought out my inner child, my sense of wonder and imagination, and I can't wait for next year!

Have you ever been to a balloon race? Have you ever taken a hot air balloon ride?

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