A fun-filled weekend is coming soon to Howell, with the 40th Annual Michigan Challenge Balloonfest running June 27-29 at Howell High School, 1200 W. Grand River Ave.
Organizers promise the upcoming event will “be the biggest celebration yet,” according to a media release.
“Each year, tens of thousands of visitors travel to Howell to experience the breathtaking sight of hot air balloons, vibrant community spirit and a weekend full of family-friendly fun — and this milestone year will deliver all that and more,” the release read.
How much is admission to Balloonfest?
Daily admission to Balloonfest is $5, while a weekend wristband is $10. Children under 3 enter free, and veterans with a military ID can enter free June 29.
When will the hot air balloons launch at Balloonfest?
Hot air balloon launches are scheduled for 6:30-8 p.m. June 27-29, with fly-in competitions 6:30-8 a.m. June 28-29, weather-permitting.
Certain weather conditions, including wind, thunderstorms and rain, can impact balloon launches.
What family-friendly activities are available at Balloonfest?
There will be a family-fun tent available all three days, with everything from comedy to LEGOs. Some events include:
Other events include axe throwing, karate demonstrations, a project for children to build with Home Depot and a chance to meet some fan-favorite characters with Neverland Entertainment.
Where can I park for Balloonfest?
You can park on the grounds of Howell High School for free.
There are a variety of other parking lots to choose from, along with a shuttle for those who need it. The shuttle will run 5:30-11 p.m. June 27, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. June 28 and 10 a.m.-9 p.m. June 29. Pick-up and drop-off locations include Balloonfest and behind the Historic Courthouse in downtown Howell.
When does the carnival run at Balloonfest?
Big Rock Amusements is bringing over 20 rides to the annual event from 2-10 p.m. June 26, 2-11 p.m. June 27, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. June 28 and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. June 29, according to the event’s website.
Admission is required to access the carnival, and rides are an additional fee. Daily armbands are $30. You can purchase individual ride credits for 25 cents or $10 for 40, $18 for 72, $48 for 192 or $98 for 392. Rides require 10-25 credits each.
When is Balloons and Brews?
Balloons and Brews runs 4-8 p.m. June 28. It’s an evening of beer tasting, food, games and entertainment on North State Street and Grand River Avenue in downtown Howell.
The event, for adults only, benefits the Fantasy of Lights Parade. General admission is $45 and includes 10 three-ounce tastings and one 12-ounce pour, along with entertainment and yard games.
When is the Balloon Glow?
Balloonfest’s most popular event is the Balloon Glow, which takes place at sunset on the launch field June 27-28.
A laser light show will also debut on the main stage at dusk June 27-28. The event will create a visual experience with synchronize music and lights.
Are there any other events?
The annual classic car show runs 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. June 28 at Howell High School, just inside the green admission gate. The artisan market runs 4-9 p.m. June 27, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. June 28 and 10 a.m.-8 p.m. June 29.
There’s also a meet-and-greet with hot air balloon pilots at 4 p.m. June 28.
Learn more at michiganchallenge.com.
— Contact reporter Makayla Coffee at mcoffee@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Livingston Daily: 40th annual Michigan Challenge Balloonfest in Howell set for June 27-29. What to know
Reporting by Makayla Coffee, Livingston Daily / Livingston Daily
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