Imagine yourself on a crisp, clear November morning, standing on a football practice field in southeastern Colorado. Stars are quickly fading and early morning light is softening the wide cobalt sky. Camaraderie is in the air. The morning is about to come alive with sound, color, movement, with the joy of hot air balloon flight.
The 11 annual Arkansas Valley Balloon Festival, held in Rocky Ford, Colorado, is under way. Although Rocky Ford, Melon Capital of the World, is usually associated with its famous watermelons and cantaloupes, this town of about 5,500, located in the center of the agricultural Arkansas River valley, is rapidly acquiring a new reputation. It is a magnificent spot to mingle and perhaps, to fly with hot air balloon enthusiasts who come from hundreds of miles to participate each year.
This balloon festival was conceived in 1986 when Kevin Lindahl, of Rocky Ford, contacted Frank Kafka, of Littleton, and arranged for Frank to bring his balloon to a rededication ceremony for the newly renovated Rocky Ford Train Depot. The balloon was tethered near the station, drawing crowds for the community event. Then in 1988, after two years of careful planning, arrangements were finally completed and the first event was hosted by the Rocky Ford Balloon Festival committee. Around 20 balloons participated. This year 21 balloons and sponsors were in attendance along with their families and crews.
Pilots and crew alike of agree that, "Its like family here. And its so nice to come back the next year and everyone remembers your name." The atmosphere is truly amazing, up close and personal, unlike some of the larger balloon festivals. Spectators are still allowed onto the field as the balloons inflate. And, once the balloon are launched, avid fans can follow the crews as they give chase across the wide countryside. It is a memorable experience, from the ground or flying high with the silence gently pressing against your ears.
Playing host to this event, which receives statewide television coverage, is a major asset to this small community. Pilots and crews, and of course, spectators from hundreds of miles away, use the local hotels, stores and restaurants while in town for the weekend. Once in the area, visitors learn there are numerous other fun things to see and do within a short drive. Picketwire and Vogel Canyons with their Native American rock art and pictographs are easily assessable, as are nearby dinosaur tracks. Bents Fort National Historic Site and the Koshare Indian Museum in La Junta are other local attractions.
Pilots especially love this wonderful family event because the town rolls out the red carpet for everyone involved. It's a memorable experience for all concerned. This year's event is scheduled for early November. For more information, contact Kevin Lindahl at 719-254-3301 or Frank Kafka at 303-979-1831.