Hot-Air-Balloon Festival To Brighten Kent Skies

Thanks in part to the unwitting efforts of a sheep, a duck and a rooster during Europe's Age of Enlightenment, about 25,000 South King County residents will be able to gaze heavenward with awe this weekend.

Tomorrow and Saturday is the Kent International Balloon Classic, with balloonists from around the state competing alongside those from Idaho and California.

While balloons drifting over the city this weekend will be operated by experienced fliers, the original air travelers were barnyard animals in Paris in 1783.

Hot-air flight got its start when two French papermakers began floating paper bags in smoke. Once tethered flights with animals were a success, people began to take them to the skies.

The free classic will be launched with a celebrity race at 6:30 a.m. tomorrow from Kent Meridian High School, 9800 S.E. 256th St. Their goal is to drop a sandbag on a target.

The Saturday-morning launch also takes place at the high school.

Some of the races, to be held all day tomorrow and Saturday, will have an unusual twist. For instance, there will be an award for the pilot who manages to get farthest away from the target.

The Balloon Glow starts tomorrow at 5 p.m., with balloons taking off at 7 p.m., weather permitting, at Riverbend Golf Complex Par 3 Course, 2020 W. Meeker St. A skydiving competition will follow at 9 p.m. When it gets dark out, the balloons light up on the ground, giving the event its name.

Entertainment at the glow will include music, children's entertainment, African dance and rock music by Jr. Cadillac.

Parking for the glow is available at the driving range and at Russell Road Park, for $2 per car. Organizers recommend allowing extra time, as parking is limited and streets get clogged.

The Balloon Classic is sponsored by Seafair and the City of Kent Parks and Recreation Department. For more information, call 859-3991.