Provo, UT

One Saturday morning in August I woke my family before dawn for the Ogden Valley Balloon Festival morning launch (it always feels like such an adventure when you leave while it’s still dark out!). As the sun rose we made the pretty drive through the Cache National Forest, and arrived at 6:30 a.m. at a small field near Eden just as the balloon crews were beginning to set up.

We watched as about 25 colorful envelopes (the uninflated balloons) covered the ground. Soon the propane tanks began hissing and the field exploded with beautiful colors as the balloons inflated. Before you knew it, they were upright, straining against the lead ropes with the same anticipation as the watching crowd. It was a breathtaking sight as the balloons lifted off one by one into the morning sun with the elegance and grace of whales dancing in the ocean. The sky filled with a kaleidoscope of magnificent colors, uplifting music filled the air, and my heart soared with the beauty filling the sky.

This was the first time I’d ever attended a balloon launch and I had no idea it would be so awe-inspiring. It was a combination of everything: the brilliant colors, the roar of the burners, the energy and excitement of the crowd, and the music (which firmly convinced me that life should come with a soundtrack!).

We had packed a picnic breakfast and camp chairs, but we didn’t sit down at all. There was too much activity and too much to see. We were right on the field in the middle of all the action. Most of the balloon operators are really friendly and enjoy talking to balloon gazers about their beloved sport. You can even lend a helping hand, or take a ride. Early morning and sunset are ideally the best times of day to launch, since the wind is usually calmer and temperatures are lower. I always thought hot-air balloon rides seemed too expensive but after watching the launch I think it would be incredible if I could ever work up the courage to climb into that little wicker basket!

After the launch there was a pancake breakfast (proceeds donated to charity). The music continued to play, and my daughter danced around the emptying field to songs like “Up, Up and Away” and “99 Red Luftballoons”. We watched until the last balloon disappeared from view.

If you go:
–Admission and parking are free.
–Strollers are okay, but skip the chairs. You won’t be sitting, there’s simply too much going on.
–There are port-a-potties on site with sinks outside.
–Wear comfortable, closed shoes. The field is pretty well-maintained but better safe than sorry.
–Dress in layers. The early morning hours are chilly, but as the sun rises so does the temperature.
–Don’t forget your camera!

For more information, directions, and awesome photos: http://www.ogdenvalleyballoonfestival.com/