Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic

The city of Boise has a tradition called the Spirit of Boise Balloon Festival. Every year hundreds of hot air balloons are released in Ann Morrison Park. People come from all over the Treasure Valley to witness the spectacular display. This year a few of my roommates and I were lucky enough to view this amazing event.

Because perfect conditions are required for the sendoff to be successful, it must take place fairly early in the morning. My roommates and I set our alarm clocks for 6:30 am (an hour that rarely sees college students). We biked along the Green Belt outside our dorm and then reached the park. When we came we did not know what to expect in terms of how many balloons would be there and when and how they would send the balloons off. When they began inflating them we were in awe of the size and multitude of hot air balloons that there were. They all differed in style. Some with rainbow colors, some flowered, and even a few with Star Wars characters. As they lifted into the air it was incredible to see them fill the sky, and even after we traveled home we could see the balloons flying all around Boise.

I would HIGHLY recommend the Spirit of Boise Balloon Festival. It is a completely free event that focuses on fun for all ages and spectacular views. It goes on for an entire weekend in August, with plenty of opportunities to watch. There are even night viewings and activities for kids. What a fun way to wrap up the summer before school! :-)