“This year we invite attendees to walk inside a cold inflated hot air balloon envelope that will remain laying on the ground. We’ve partnered with Uplifting Adventures to create an experience that allows an inside out view, great photos, and educational facts about the fabric of the envelope, structure of the basket and more. The walk thru is free for all ages,” says Amy Leone, Balloon Operations Coordinator and Vice/Chair – Secretary on the Plano Balloon Festival Board of Directors.

COLD INFLATED BALLOON WALK-THRU SCHEDULE:

Friday, September 20, 2024 @ 4:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 21, 2024 @ 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 22, 2024 @ 7:00 a.m.

Festival attendees are welcome to walk to the end of the field where the envelope of the balloon will be cold inflated and laying down. Walk into the balloon, take pictures, and observe the parts of a hot air balloon from within. Fun favors will be available for children to select from and adults will receive the Parts of a Hot Air Balloon flyer along with the Hot Air Balloon Q&A. Special thanks to Uplifting Adventures owner Billy Broker, a licensed commercial pilot flying Excellence, the official City of Plano balloon.

PARTS OF A HOT AIR BALLOON

ENVELOPE
Fabric portion of the balloon system that holds the hot air.

PARACHUTE VALVE
The valve at the top of the envelope is a large opening for the purpose of lowering the balloon, usually in preparation for landing. During flight it is covered and secured with fabric. By using the deflation/vent control line, the pilot can slowly release hot air and allow the balloon to descend.

BASKET:
The wicker structure that hangs below the envelope and carries the pilot, passengers, burner and other equipment needed for flight.

Uplifting Adventures operates a FAA certified (CRS# RY1R469K) hot air balloon repair center. They also manage several corporate balloon accounts, offers balloon event organization, and management services. Additionally, ballooning enthusiasts line of balloon accessories that can be purchased online.

The H-E-B | Central Market Plano Balloon Festival Dates & Hours

September 19 – 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
September 20 – 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
September 21 – 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
September 22 – 6:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.