Arizona Balloon Classic landing at Goodyear Ballpark this weekend
Jan 25, 2019, 3:15 PM
(Facebook Photo/Arizona Balloon Classic)
PHOENIX – A hit ’60s song hit song once asked, “Would you like to ride in my beautiful balloon?”
If your answer is yes, you’ll want ride out to Goodyear Ballpark this weekend for the eighth annual Arizona Balloon Classic.
Around 20,000 spectators are expected to attend the event, which will feature food vendors, a beer garden, live music and, of course, dozens of hot air balloons.
Festival activities run from 4-8 p.m. Friday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday and 7-10 a.m. Sunday.
The nightly balloon glows — with tethered, illuminated balloons spanning the field — are scheduled for 6:30-7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and typically draw the biggest crowds each year.
For early risers, “hare and hound” balloon races are set for 7:35-8:35 a.m. Saturday and Sunday.
All balloon activity times are weather contingent and subject to change. The National Weather Service forecast calls for mostly clear skies with calm winds and high temperatures in the 70s throughout the weekend.
Other attractions include balloon rides (which must be booked in advance), tethered balloon rides and Saturday night fireworks.
Admission is $15 per day at the gate, with children under 12 getting in free. Parking is $5.
A portion of ticket sales will benefit Valley of the Sun United Way.
Visit the festival’s website for more information about tickets, booking a balloon ride and the schedule.