The Lake Havasu City Balloon Festival was a huge success for several days, but it closed early on Sunday due to rain. But Balloon Festival Director Steve Tickner said this year is one of the best he's ever seen.
“Overall, I think this was definitely one of the best balloon festivals we've had in years,” Tickner said. “It was definitely one of the best-attended festivals in years, and I think a lot of that was down to the weather. Obviously the good weather allowed the balloons to fly. It ascended to heaven, and was able to emit light every night.”
Tickner said four of the six ascents scheduled for the weekend took place, with 75 pilots participating.
Tickner said about 25,000 people attended this year's festival, which probably would have been a record number had Sunday's weather not been bad.
“We decided the weather was too wet to have people there,” Tickner said. “Without that, we probably would have had a record-breaking weekend.”
Every year, all proceeds are distributed to local charities in Lake Havasu City, and Tickner said he believes the proceeds will at least match last year's fundraising.
“My favorite part was meeting all the people who came out to support us,” Tickner said. “This place was really packed both Friday and Saturday night. We appreciate the city's continued support of our events.”
