Missouri’s Oldest & Largest Hot Air Balloon Event is Free for All

Get ready to see the wonders of hot air balloons take over Forest Park in St. Louis, Missouri.

The oldest and largest hot air balloon event is coming September 20th and 21st at Emerson Central Field in Forest Park. This event brings hundreds if not thousands of people to watch the amazement of these beautiful balloons.

The Great Forest Park Balloon Race

The event kicks off on Friday, September 21st with a balloon glow. Watch as the magnificent balloons light up the sky in Forest Park. This free event allows spectators to get close bought to hot air balloons, and race in the sky to the finish line. If you have ever been lucky enough to attend the Quincy University Balloon Glow it's much similar to that but on a much BIGGER scale. Over 50 balloons will be at the balloon glow.

Also, you can get close to the balloons and their pilots and crew on Friday. This will give you plenty of opportunity to meet the pilot, learn about flying a hot air balloon, and any other questions you may have.

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Saturday, September 22ned you can watch the balloons take off (weather permitting) in the late afternoon. A Skydiving Team will kick off the ceremonies first and then the balloons will start the race. I've never been to this hot air balloon event, but they must know what they are doing since it's the oldest and largest hot air balloon event in the country.

I have had the chance (many moons ago) to ride in a hot air balloon and it was an experience I will never forget. Unfortunately, you can't get rides at this event, but if you ever have the chance to ride in a balloon take it. I can promise you it's something you will never forget.