Great Texas Balloon Race facts for kids
The Great Texas Balloon Race is an exciting hot air balloon festival that happens every summer. It takes place near the city of Longview, Texas, usually close to the East Texas Regional Airport. This amazing event started in 1978. It is known as "The longest running hot-air balloon event in Texas."
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What is the Great Texas Balloon Race?
The Great Texas Balloon Race is a big festival where many colorful hot air balloons take to the sky. It's not just a race; it's also a fun event for families and friends. People come from all over to watch the balloons.
History of the Race
The very first Great Texas Balloon Race happened in 1978. Since then, it has been a yearly tradition. It has grown to be one of the most famous balloon events in the state. The festival brings joy and excitement to the Longview area.
Why is it Called a "Race"?
Even though it's called a race, it's not always about who is fastest. Pilots often try to land their balloons on a target. This is called a "hare and hound" race. One balloon, the "hare," takes off first. The other balloons, the "hounds," try to follow and drop a marker as close as possible to where the hare lands.
When Does the Race Happen?
The Great Texas Balloon Race usually takes place in the summer. It's a weekend event with activities happening over several days.
Recent Events
The 2020 Great Texas Balloon Race was canceled. This happened because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the race returned in 2021. It was a successful event with many balloons flying. You can read more about it here: 2021 Great Texas Balloon Race.
What Can You See and Do?
Besides watching the balloons fly, there are many other things to enjoy.
Balloon Glows
One of the most popular parts of the festival is the "balloon glow." This happens at night. The balloons are inflated but stay on the ground. Their burners light up the balloons like giant lanterns. It's a beautiful sight to see.
Other Activities
The festival often has live music, food vendors, and activities for kids. It's a great way for families to spend time together. You can learn about hot air balloons and meet the pilots.
