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Our Mission Statement:
The mission of this organization is to
promote hot air ballooning in Battle Creek and educate local youth and citizens
about the science and spirit of ballooning through on-site visits to local
schools and balloon events held in December. The organization shall not be used
to promote any private or public organization or business with out permission of
the Board of Directors of the HBF, Inc.
BFA US Nationals takes to the air
over Battle Creek
Our History:
Holiday Balloon Fest began in 1998 at Kellogg's
Cereal City USA in Battle Creek. The fest has grown from having only 13
pilots that first year to over 70 Hot Air Balloonists in 2008.
As the event and the excitement of this winter ballooning event grew, the
attendance has grown right along with it. The attendance for 1998 was 5000 and
now the Holiday Balloon Fest is attracting over 25,000 people to Battle Creek
and growing!
Starting in 2009 HBF hosted the Balloon Federation of America US National
Championships. We will continue to host the US Nationals through 2011.
In 2012 we will host the FAI World Hot Air Balloon Championship.
Holiday Balloon Fest is involved in the
Community
with such organizations as the United Way, CIR (Community Inclusive
Recreation), The Salvation Army, Toys for Tots, WOOD TV 8 - WOTV 4 Angel Tree and Food Bank
of South Central Michigan.
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Balloonist Education:
We provided an education tent at the US
Nationals to teach youth and adults alike about ballooning.
Balloonist and crew have visited local area
elementary schools.
Pilots and crew have inflated their balloons on school grounds for the kids and
educate our community's youth as to the history and safety facts of Hot Air
Ballooning
We have entertained the youths, as well as shown them how they can become involved
in all the action and fun that balloonists enjoy.
Students have enjoyed creating a centerpiece for the Holiday Balloon Fest with the
year's theme.
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