Sussex
is home to the “Atlantic
International Balloon Fiesta”, where as
many as 30 Hot Air Balloons fill the skies. The event
is held annually the weekend after Labour Day and
has fun for the entire family. Located at Princess
Louise Park .... Access to the grounds to watch the
balloons is and entertainment is FREE.
(For
more detailed information about this great event or
for Balloon Fiesta Sponsorship opportunities, please
visit the Official
Balloon Fiesta website.)
LAUNCHES
The
launch schedule has the balloons lifting-off daily at
6:30 am and 6:00 pm (weather permitting). Rides are
available at a cost of $160.00 for each person. To book
your flight fill-out the signup sheet at the information
booth.
In
addition to the balloons - the event is filled with
fun things for all ages to enjoy. There's an Outdoor
Bandstand featuring live music all weekend long and
a Talent Show on Sunday afternoon. An Indoor Craft Fair
at the 8th Hussars Sports Centre, food concessions,
Kavanaugh Amusements, lots of kids games and activites,
Paragliding demonstrations and much more.
It's
September and temperatures can be variable. It can be
cool in the morning and relatively warm in the afternoon
- so wear comfortable clothing and dress in layers.
Remember
to bring your camera and make sure the memory card is
clear or at least has lots of room to take photos. Be
sure your camera batteries are charged-up or you have
extra ones, and also lots of film - if you have a non-digital.
In
the evenings after the sun has gone down, the Balloons
inflate for spectacular Moon Glow. Several of the balloons
inflate in the launch area of Princess Louise Park,
but don't lift-off. They take turns igniting their burners
which lights-up the balloon, showing their beautiful
colors and unique patterns.
Sunday
features an Antique Car Show & Shine with as many
as 500 vehicles participating. Like most Balloon Fiesta
events, this is free to the public and people from all
over bring their cars, trucks, rods and motorcycles.
The
Balloon Fiesta is made possible by an extremely dedicated
group of volunteers who spend countless hours planning,
organizing and operating all aspects of this great event.
The Fiesta is truly a fun time for all ages and the
hard work of these individuals and continued support
of all the great sponsors promises to make this festival
better every year.
Entry
to the Event grounds is FREE, but some on-site activities
and concessions do charge for admittance or use.
There
are numerous parking areas set up for this event. These
are operated by various non-profit community groups.
Parking cost around $3.00 and the money raised from
Balloon Fiesta parking goes to support these local groups,
sports teams, etc.
