The Greater Centralia Chamber of Commerce has announced two special shaped balloons that will be making an appearance at Balloon Fest in Fairview Park in August. “Como Se Llama” a pink llama-shaped balloon will be sponsored by Kaskaskia College. “Boo!” a ghost-shaped balloon still awaits a sponsor. The Freedom Flight POW MIA balloon will also be returning sponsored by the VFW and American Legion.
Attendees can expect the same number of hot air balloons with 34 pilots already confirmed.
Headlining entertainment on the SSM Health Main Stage will be “The Boy Band Night” pop tribute act on Friday evening and “Stir of Echoes” local dad-rock band on Saturday evening. Live entertainment will fill the stage for the three-days sponsored by Tequila’s Mexican Restaurants and Taco Jo’s.
“We are back on schedule with Balloon Fest this year and have to give credit to our sponsors, volunteers, and City of Centralia for the assistance as we adjust the event to this new venue. The change brings good news with free admission, more accessible location, and in a major shopping district for economic impact and business growth,” said Marcus Holland, executive director for the Centralia Chamber of Commerce.
The Balloon Fest Planning Committee was told at their meeting this week that 18 food vendors and 90 craft vendors have signed up for the event, which is similar to previous years.
Fairview Park also offers the ability to add activities for Sunday Family Fun Day sponsored by Bayer Crop Science with existing playground equipment, including the American Ninja Warrior-style course, and courts for tennis, pickleball, volleyball, horseshoes, a skatepark, and more.
Over the next three months, the steering committee is finalizing all details and looking for volunteers to assist with various tasks throughout the weekend.
“We greatly appreciate our volunteers, especially the leadership of the steering committee and the organizations helping with tasks like trash pick-up, crewing hot air balloons, and kids’ activities,” said Holland.
In addition to volunteer opportunities, there are several sponsorship opportunities for businesses, families, or individuals who want to support the event.
“We have a few hot air balloon sponsorships available, with four scheduled flights and two scheduled balloon glows. Also, new sponsorship opportunities with high visibility in the park through the weekend,” said Holland. “We appreciate all of our returning sponsors who make this event happen each year!”
Those interested in volunteering at the event or becoming a Balloon Fest sponsor may contact the Chamber office at 618-532-6789.
