There is something mesmerising about hot air balloons; a sense of whimsy, perhaps, or the jaw-dropping impact of color against a breathtakingly blue sky. They feel timeless, and it’s rare enough to see one that they almost seem magical. Children and adults alike will marvel over the beauty of the balloons at the 4th Annual Color Aloft Balloon Festival in Grayslake, hosted by the Grayslake Chamber of Commerce.

The community event will include musical entertainment, an old-fashioned baseball game, children’s activities, storytelling, and business booths. If the weather and conditions are right, the balloons will inflate and take off between 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. in a classic “Fox and the Hounds” competition. The balloons try to land closest to the “Fox.”

After dark, the balloons will return to the park. This is yet another sight to behold, as they are illuminated by their burners and glow against the night sky.

Here is what you need to know if you’re planning to attend the festival:
- There are no food vendors for this event, so pack a picnic or grab a bite in town (check out some of Jenna’s suggestions here).
- Parking is available at Grayslake Central High School, Grayslake Middle School, Grayslake Aquatic Center, and the Grayslake Library.
- Times are approximate and the event is WEATHER DEPENDENT.
Melissa attended the festival in 2013. You can read about the first annual event here.
4th Annual Color Aloft Balloon Festival
August 27, 2016 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Central Park | 250 Library Lane, Grayslake
Hosted by the Grayslake Chamber of Commerce | 847-223-6888
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