Walter E. Larmie
Great weather prevailed
at the 20th annual Wakefield Rotary Balloon Festival held at the University
of Rhode Island athletic fields in Kingston, Rhode Island, on July 24, 25,
and 26. Five scheduled flights and a balloon illumination all went off as
scheduled. It was the first time in the history of the event that this was
accomplished.
Nineteen balloons from New England and New York participated. Winds were light with typical north to northwest winds for morning flights and southwest sea breezes in the evening. During mid-day the velocity increased slightly making it ideal for kite flying. Visibility was unlimited with great views of the ocean and islands from a few hundred feet. Most of the balloons had interesting flights while a few tethered at the field to the delight of the crowd. Balloon flights in southern Rhode Island are always challenging because of the lack of large landing areas. The large turf fields are mostly red zones so landing are confined to relatively small areas of an acre or less.
Saturday afternoon all pilots and crew members enjoyed a pig roast on the field with balloonmeister Larry Fortin as chief cook.
In addition to balloons, model airplanes, kites, ultralites, and paragliders were some of the aviation-oriented activities. A super car show, numbering over 400 antiques, vintage wheels, and Corvettes was well-received. More that a hundred crafts people displayed their wares and children's activities were scheduled throughout the day. A variety of South County foods were served by local fire companies and churches. No commercial venders or exhibits are allowed.
Over 20,000 people attended this event, with all proceeds going to local charities.
