By Alexandra Haller
Balloon Festival in Michigan
The Michigan Challenge Balloonfest is held the last weekend in June and attracts more than 100,000 visitors. It's been held for 25 years and once you know what the festival is all about, you will see why tourists continue to include this festival in their summer plans. With a wide array of events to entice children and grandparents alike, it's a fun-filled family event.
Location
With the exception of one parade in the downtown area, all events take place at the Howell High School in Howell. Howell is approximately 60 miles west of Detroit and 260 miles from Chicago.
Time Frame
The weekend festival begins with a special carnival preview on Thursday from 2-11 p.m. and ends with a vibrant, colorful balloon launch at 6 p.m. on Sunday evening.
Features
The Balloonfest features much more than just hot air balloons. Tourists will see sky divers, the Windjammer kite stunt team, kids' events, balloon launches, a carnival, fireworks, and a medieval village.
Warning
The Balloonfest is a family-friendly event that also takes place on public school property. No alcoholic beverages or smoking are allowed on the grounds.
Parking
There is one VIP parking lot and six others, which are also handicapped accessible. The fees are $12 for a day pass, $20 for the weekend pass, or $15 if you purchase in advance---and this cost covers admission for everyone in your vehicle.
About the Author:
Alexandra Haller has written for numerous health and fitness outlets. Her work has been picked up by "Runner's World," "Reuters." She has worked as a copy editor for the American Mathematical Society, the editor-in-chief for Her Active Life and is now a proofreader for Plante & Moran.
Photo Credits:
morguefile.com
