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roostook County is steeped in ballooning history. In 1978, the Double Eagle II launched from Presque Isle and made the first successful crossing of the Atlantic. In 1984, Joe Kittinger became the first person to make the solo Transatlantic balloon journey, launching from Caribou. In 2013 Jonathan Trappe launched his attempted trans-Atlantic balloon flight using 365 individual helium balloons and established a world record for distance, when he landed in Newfoundland.
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Each year, The Crown of Maine Balloon Fest offers a weekend of events for the whole family featuring hot air balloons, kids events, music, other family friendly fun!
With the brevity of the season, sometimes it feels as though summer is over before it begins here in Maine. I don’t know about you, but I like to plan out my weekends and make sure I get to do all the wonderful outdoor things Maine has to offer while the sun is shining and I don’t need to wear a jacket. We’re over a month away from the official start of summer and my calendar is already almost full. Between camping and road trips and hiking and concerts, I was relieved this year to find the weekend of August 22nd and 24th free so I can attend the Annual Crown of Maine Balloon Fest for the first time!
I grew up near Portland and moved to the Bangor area while I was in high school, but as I get older, I’ve been so delighted to find and attend the unique and exciting festivities that happen all over Maine. Our state is broad. We have gorgeous coastlines and serene woods, bustling downtowns and stunning farmland. Maine has never as yet failed to stop me in my tracks for its beauty and its ability to make me feel insignificant and quiet. I hope that the Balloon Festival will once again give me this experience.
I’ve seen so many beautiful photos of the Balloon Festival and imagine it’s even more magical in person. It’s taking place from August 22nd to the 24th and not only will we get to witness these monstrous, colorful balloons take to the sky, but we’ll also get to visit an arts and crafts sale, walk through a classic Maine street fair, listen to musical entertainment and of course, enjoy the fair food. They’re even going to let the balloons up after dark, so the bright colors and shapes can light up the night. I don’t know about you, but I’m getting really excited about this festival!
If you want more information about the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest, you can visit: Official Website www.combf.org or check out their Facebook Page
