Balloons Over Bend — Balloon Launches

It takes an early rise (for some of us, at least) and cooperative weather (specifically a lack of wind), but when all the pieces of the annual Balloons Over Bend come together, they result in one of the most breathtaking local events of the year.

Such is the aesthetic power of a massive and wildly colorful balloon rising against the vibrant blue of the early morning, powered only by hot air — the good kind.

Balloons Over Bend is back this weekend (see “If you go”), with launches set for 6 a.m. today, Saturday and Sunday from Riverbend Park near the Bend Parks & Recreation District headquarters. At dusk tonight, the balloons will light up the sky for the annual Nightglow.

And on Saturday and Sunday, follow the launch (and maybe breakfast at a nearby restaurant if you can get a table) with some time at the associated Children’s Festival, with more than 60 kid-friendly activities, bouncy houses, face-painting and more. Adults and children age 2 and younger get in free; admission for children older than 2 is $10 plus fees online at www.balloonsoverbend.com or $12 at the festival or tonight’s Nightglow.

Also on Saturday, there’ll be the Balloon Blast kids’ race for ages 3-10. Pit your li’l sprinter against others and see if he or she wins a prize. Find more info at that same website.

Most importantly: Balloons Over Bend is a fundraiser for Saving Grace, a local organization that “provides comprehensive family violence and sexual assault services and promotes the value of living life free from violence.”

— Ben Salmon