HOT FLASHES
One of the most anticipated events of balloon race weekend is the U.S. Bank Derby Festival Great Balloon Glow. This spectacular event truly rivals the race in popularity with more than 50,000 fans in attendance annually!
The U.S. Bank Derby Festival Great Balloon Glow is a companion event to the race, the balloons inflate in their launch position on the field, but do not ascend. As the pilots fire their burners, watch as the balloons glow against the blackness of the night sky, synchronized to a special musical score.
You are invited to walk around the field and talk to the pilots as they have more time to show off their balloon than on race morning. Says Balloon Glow Chairman Leslie Broecker, “even if you plan on coming to the race, you don’t want to miss the unique beauty of the glow. It’s a one-of-a kind experience!”
In 2007, an estimated 65,000 balloon fans gathered on a muddy field to see the static luminary of the U.S. Bank Great Balloon Glow on Friday night. The show was choreographed to a soundtrack of popular songs that referenced magic and related allures and broadcast live on 103.1 WRKA. The Glow was also broadcast live by WAVE 3 TV.
The U.S. Bank Great Balloon Glow is free if you are wearing a 2008 Pegasus Pin. The Friday night Glow both begins at 9 PM. Make sure you come early to get parked. The lot adjacent to the field in front of the South Wing fills up early. Make plans to bring a picnic dinner and tailgate with other Balloon fans. Enter through South Wing A, and enjoy games, rides and kids activities. Or, browse the vendor area featuring hand-made balloon items, toys and novelties.
