One of the most beautiful ways to view Sonoma County wine country is from the basket of a hot air balloon, and one of the most beautiful views in Sonoma County is the Sonoma County Hot Air Balloon Classic! This year marks the 25th year of the classic, which is scheduled to take place next weekend, June 20 and 21. Proceeds from the event will benefit Windsor Service Alliance, Redwood Empire Food Bank, Boy Scouts of America and Windsor High School Boosters Club.
If you have never been to a hot air balloon festival before, one does entail just getting up early, watching the balloons float off into the distance and then going home. While, yes, attending a balloon festival does involve getting up early it does entail food and fun afterwards! Each morning at 5:00 AM is the Dawn Patrol - Balloon Launch in the Dark. It's a pretty spectacular sight to watch the balloons launch as the sun rises. However, if you cannot get there that early, the Main Launch begins at 6:30 AM each day. On each day, approximately 30 balloons will launch, tethered balloon rides will be offered and guests will enjoy food booths, craft booths and a children's play area. The festivities will last through 11 AM.
The Sonoma County Hot Air Balloon Classic is completely volunteer-produced. If you would like to offer your assistance during the classic, you may sign up on the event website. Volunteers will receive a t-shirt, free admission, a 25th anniversary pin and free lunch. Volunteers are needed to help with set-up, admissions and more.
If you are interested in attending the balloon classic, tickets can be purchased online, or locally in Santa Rosa at Copperfields Books. Tickets cost $10 each or $5 for children under 5 years of age.
The event is held at Keiser Park, located in Windsor. From your apartment home at Annadel, it will take approximately 15 minutes by car to arrive at the park. Parking is available at Keiser Park and at Windsor High School.
Do you plan to get up early to watch the balloons and the sun rise at the Hot Air Balloon Classic? Share your thoughts with Annadel on our Facebook and Twitter pages!
Additional sources consulted:
The Press Democrat
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