Balloons Float the Billings Big Sky

Early this morning I drove to Amend Park to watch the Big Sky Balloon Rally.  I thought with the early Saturday morning, I would be among the quiet few crews taking off at 6:00.  My surprise to see thousands who came just to watch.  Families came with blankets and lawn chairs, some kids still in PJs and one little girl in a dress but with unbrushed blond hair.

As the red sun just started rising, crews spread out the balloons for inflation.  These aircraft arrived on pickup trucks and small trailers.  My next surprise was how closely they are together while filling up with air, a few pressed together.  Each balloon team consisted of the pilot, ground crew and passengers.

The basket itself is neither large nor tall, cozy for three or four at most and the rim only up to a man's waist.  If you have acrophobia or fear of heights, this is a great way to face that fear, or to never put on your bucket list.  Yes, I prefer my feet on Terra Firma.

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While most were the standard balloon shape, like big colorful light bulbs, one favorite is the hatching dinosaur and another is a fishbowl with a baby turtle on top.

Each balloon launched as soon as it was inflated, to the delight and applause of the crowd.  This morning's squadron gently floated east, following the interstate.

As the balloons shrunk with the distance, kids and parents received a free mini-flight on the Pirate Jack, lifting up to about twenty feet for pictures.  Now they have proof that yes, they have flown in a hot air balloon.

Another Two Launches Saturday Evening, June 27 and Sunday Morning the 28th

Wanna join the festivity?  These balloons will launch again at 6:00 p.m. Saturday and 6:00 a.m. Sunday.  Bring the whole family, some shade in the evening or blankets in the morning.  This is something to see up close.