First Annual “Balloons Over DeSoto” Event Slated for May 8, 9 and 10
On May 8, 9 and 10, DeSoto Parish residents as well as the surrounding area will have the opportunity to be a part of something historic as a hot air balloon show entitled, “Balloons Over DeSoto” will be held. The event will be filled with family fun for an entire weekend, and is sponsored by the DeSoto Parish Police Jury and D
eSoto Parish Tourism Board. If you’ve ever heard the old 1960’s hit, “Would You Like to Ride in My Beautiful Balloon,” you will have a chance to do just that. For a fee, both tethered and untethered balloon rides, will be offered on during the weekend. There also will be an aerial display, Fly-In, Competition Flight and skydivers. At sunset, the breathtakingly beautiful Balloon Glow will be presented on both Friday and Saturday nights, with special narration being provided during the ceremony by one of the world’s premier hot air balloon announcers, Glen Moyer, along with a musical interlude to compliment the night-time show. Besides the featured balloon festivities, there will be musical entertainment provided by Billy J. Music 4 U Professional Karaoke, DJ and Master of Ceremonies on Friday night and Saturday afternoon. On Saturday night, International touring and recording artists, Topper – Voices of Rock and Soul will provide a variety of sounds that include both original and cover tunes. If you like James Brown to Journey to Willie Nelson to Elvis to the Temptations, you will love Topper. The popular band has performed at festivals, private events and casinos in our area numerous times. There will be children’s activities and inflatables such as a bouncy house, a car and motorcycle show, and a petting zoo. Remote control aircraft such as drones will also be on hand during the event. Airport Manager, Randi Walding, reported that this year’s event would include a limited amount of rides on a WWII Bi-Plane “Stearman” as well as a commemorative Air Force plane display. The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Department will be on hand to demonstrate a K-9 exercise, showing how this valuable member of DPSD works to protect DeSoto citizens along side his human companions. There also will be an opportunity for food and arts and crafts vendors to sell their wares to the large crowd that is anticipated. Walding at 318-871-7915. Pilot Pat Harwell stated that 15 balloons are expected to participate in DeSoto’s first ever hot air balloon event. He said that volunteers would be needed to help each pilot with various work details related to the balloon, specifying that size does not matter, but the age group need to be high school age and up. At least two volunteers are needed per balloon. If interested, call Harwell at 318-925-2307. Harwell continued, “For a group of students needing public or community service hours for various reasons, this would be ideal.”
Watch for updates in regarding “Balloons Over DeSoto” in weeks to come as activities are added and finalized. For specific information contact Airport Director, Randi Walding, at the C. E. “Rusty” Williams Airport at 318-872-0738 or 318-871-7915. The airport is located at 211 Independence Avenue in Grand Cane, just off of Hwy 171.
