Centralia’s Balloon Fest is just a few weeks away and the call is going out for volunteers to man the gates and crew for the Balloonists.
Centralia Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Marcus Holland says Balloon Fest is powered by community volunteers while proceeds from the three-day festival provide funding for local community improvement projects and programs.
The event is scheduled for August 20th, 21st, and 22nd. This year’s festival will feature hot air balloons, balloon glows, tethered balloon rides, a craft fair with over 60 vendors, food vendors, two live entertainment stages, along with family games and activities.
Chamber office assistant Amanda Barbee says they are looking for 50 more volunteers to work gate entrances.
With over 10,000 in attendance each night, there are hundreds of volunteers to help with the admission gates for two-hour shifts. Centralia Balloon Fest also provides opportunities to work hands-on with hot air balloons and meet the festival’s pilots. “Balloon Crewing” invites volunteers into a completely immersive hot air balloon experience as you spend the weekend assisting the balloon pilots with set-up and break-down their aircraft.
Holland says they have a total of 35 pilots and balloons this year. They still have room for 20 additional volunteers interested in crewing a balloon. Holland says this is great for teenagers and families to get up close and personal with the balloons.
Balloon Crew training for new volunteers will be held on Wednesday, August 18 at 5:30 p.m. at Foundation Park by the Gazebo.
If you would like to be a Balloon Fest volunteer or crew member, please, contact The Greater Centralia Chamber of Commerce at 618-532-6789. Stay up-to-date at www.centraliaballoonfest.com.
