SMITH COUNTY — Colorful hot air balloons will fill the sky during the The Great Texas Balloon Race, a competition featuring some of the best pilots in the nation and family-friendly activities, Friday through Sunday at the East Texas Regional Airport in Longview.
About 50 balloons, including several special shapes balloons, are set to participate, organizers said.
Flights will take place beginning about 6 each morning at and near the airport located on Texas 322 at Farm-to-Market Road 349. Wind and weather conditions can affect competitions. Events also take place at the airport on Friday and Saturday beginning at 4 p.m. The popular Balloon Glow is set for nightfall on Friday and Saturday. Concerts also are set for Friday and Saturday at the airport.
Admission to the airport is $15 on Friday and $20 on Saturday. Children younger than 12 are admitted free. There is a separate $5 entry into the Kids Land filled with bounce houses, slides and other attractions that will be available on Friday and Saturday.
There is no charge to come to the airport and see the balloons on Sunday morning.
On Friday, special shapes balloons will be on view throughout town including at 911 W. Loop 281, 4200 W. Loop 281, 100 Mackey Parkway, Whaley at Second Street and 2500 McCann Road.
