Good Morning, Washington Parish! Let the Balloon Festival Begin!
Published 9:29 am Friday, May 30, 2025
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BY KIM EDWARDS
THE DAILY NEWS
Even though heavy fog grounded this morning’s scheduled flights, spirits were sky-high at the Washington Parish Balloon Festival. Attendees were treated to a fascinating, up-close demonstration of how hot air balloons are assembled and operated. Crews laid out the massive, colorful envelopes and explained the intricate mechanics that allow these gentle giants to take flight.
Among the highlights of the morning were two adventurous boys, Will Case and Jackson Leos, who had the thrilling opportunity to fire up the burners themselves, learning firsthand just how much heat it takes to lift a balloon into the sky.
While fog may seem like a minor weather inconvenience, it significantly impacts hot air ballooning. Reduced visibility and unstable atmospheric conditions make safe flight nearly impossible. Still, the educational experience this morning was a silver lining, giving attendees a unique perspective on the skill and science behind ballooning.
This year’s festival is proud to feature an impressive lineup of experienced balloon pilots, including Colton Krause (Pride, LA), Shawn Krause and Chad Hebert (Zachary, LA), Karen Kent (Port Allen, LA), Mike Hanson (Greenwood, MS), Frank Anger (Belden, MS), Geoffrey Jones (Zachary, LA), Fred Poole (Meridian, MS), Gary Jones (Diamondhead, MS), Rusty Miller (AL), and Marshall Gower.
Festival President Tiffany Carney expressed her excitement about the weekend ahead:
“Everyone is looking forward to a great weekend of fun for everyone. Gates open at 5pm!”
Balloon & Activity Schedule
Friday, May 30
- 5:00 PM – Gates Open & Welcome Introductions
- 6:30 PM – Tethered Rides
- 7:45 PM – Balloon Glow
- 10:00 PM – Gates Close
Saturday, June 1
- 6:30 AM – Sponsor/Competition Flight
- 12:00 PM – Gates Open
- 4:00 PM – Visiting Queens
- 5:00 PM – Fun Flight
- 5:30 PM – Tethered Rides
- 7:30 PM – Rodeo
- 7:45 PM – Balloon Glow
- 10:00 PM – Gates Close
Sunday, June 2
- 6:30 AM – Sponsor/Competition Flight
- 12:00 PM – Gates Open
- 5:00 PM – Fun Flight
- 5:30 PM – Tethered Rides
- 6:45 PM – Balloon Glow
- 9:00 PM – Gates Close
Live Music Lineup
Get ready to dance, sway, and sing along with a weekend full of live music from incredible local and regional performers:
Friday, May 30
- 6:00 PM – Jourdan Blue
- 8:00 PM – Chase Tyler Band
Saturday, June 1
- 12:00 PM – Birdie’s Boyz
- 2:00 PM – Zack Holliday
- 5:00 PM – Sam Foshey Blues Band
- 8:00 PM – Rhythmn Chasers Band
Sunday, June 2
- 12:00 PM – Jared Daws Band
- 2:00 PM – The Starz Band Live
- 4:00 PM – Wayward Jones
- 6:00 PM – Eric Sharp and Johnny Ringo Music
Bring the family, invite your friends, and make memories that soar! Whether you’re marveling at glowing balloons, indulging in delicious local fare, or tapping your feet to live music, the Washington Parish Balloon Festival is your ticket to an unforgettable weekend.
For more information, schedules, and updates, visit www.wpballoonfest.com.
Don’t miss your chance to rise above the ordinary…. see you at the fairgrounds!
