The Great Texas Balloon Race

Tyler and its environs are one of those well kept secrets of Texas.  We are frequently surprised by some unanticipated thrill that you would expect only in a much larger metropolis.  Recently our daughter, Christina, told us about The Great Texas Balloon Race.  Bryce and I decided to join Christina, Dale, and Brayden at the event. 

This event, now in its 32nd year, rivals the largest ballooning festivals in the nation and lasts three days.  Over 50 balloons came to the festival this year.  They participated in a variety of ballooning contests and races (with a $10,000 cash prize), and provided an opportunity for visitors to get “up close and personal” with a hot air balloon. 

It’s hard to believe that hot air balloons, those majestic floating flowers of the sky, are the size of a house!  It’s even more difficult to imagine wandering in a forest of these behemoths.  Standing in the middle of a field of half inflated balloons was like standing at the bottom of a well.  One’s entire field of vision was totally obscured in every direction by the bevy of balloons.  Besides balloons all around, only the sky overhead was visible.  Curious people were dwarfed by the reclining half-inflated balloons. 

In addition to balloons, the festival featured an impressive air show with classic fighter aircraft, parachutists, and other aerobatics.  Of course no Texas event is complete without food.  There was plenty, including the Texas fair classics:  BBQ and Fried Twinkies.  Other booths offered traditional fair goodies, such as glo-lites, toy balloon sculptures, pony rides, bounce houses, and much more for the children.

There is something special about music outdoors.  It always brings a sense of special enjoyment for our weddings at Roseland, and did so at The Great Texas Balloon Race as well.  Rock’n’roll and country songs resounded throughout the grounds compliments of a local radio station, emphasizing the festive evening mood.

Though this is the hottest part of the year, it cools down by nightfall when the real action occurs:  The balloon light-up.  We all had a terrific time watching the show, and Bryce had a memorable day on the pony ride and in the bounce houses.  Brayden, who is only four months old, was oblivious to all the action.  All in all, it was one of those unanticipated thrills associated with living near Tyler.  It was certainly a “Do again,” as Debbie used to say.

The Great Texas Balloon Race is held every year at the East Texas Regional Airport in Longview.  For additional information visit www.greattexasballoonrace.com, and do plan on coming to next year’s Great Texas Balloon Race.