One of the objects of our balloon festival is to bring ballooning to the kids and hopefully ignite some curiosity and thirst for knowledge; and maybe even inspire a future balloonist, since our Executive Director set his goal to be one at age nine based on similar exposure to the sport and its enthusiasts. 

 

To this end, we provide an interactive demonstration conducted by a balloon pilot, on school grounds, for the children.  We also ask that the children participate by creating a themed centerpiece to be displayed at our Awards Banquet.

Interactive Demonstration:  At participating schools a pilot will arrive and, as weather permits, set up his or her balloon system.  When the students arrive on the scene, the pilot will begin an interactive presentation on hot air ballooning punctuated by blasts from the system’s burner, student/staff questions, and a review of program materials.  The program is planned to last no more than one hour from the pilot’s arrival.  If weather is not conducive to the outdoors, we will provide a presentation, within the school, at the staff’s direction.  In the past, use of school gyms have aided in such presentations.

Centerpiece Competition:  Participating schools will create centerpieces with a base no larger than 2-feet square using the event theme to decorate the tables at the 2008 Holiday Balloon Fest Award’s Brunch.

Downtown businesses have also agreed to display them in their windows. Pilots, crew and staff will vote and select the winning centerpieces and the Holiday Balloon Fest organization will make a presentation of awards and treat the students involved in creating the centerpiece to a pizza party before school lets out for Christmas break.  Local media will also publicize the winning entry complete with pictures.

If you have questions, please feel free to contact us .
info@holidayballoonfest.com

The Education Program is sponsored by State Farm Insurance.

If you are a school and would like to participate please contact us via phone or email for the education potion of our event.