Angola, Ind., may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about hot air balloons. But every summer the city plays host to Angola Balloons Aloft. At the festival, pilots from across the nation compete for cash and prizes, filling the sky with a dazzling display of colorful balloons.

This year, 25 competition balloons and two special shapes will fly. Flights are scheduled for Friday evening, July 9; Saturday morning and evening, July 10; and Sunday morning, July 11.

In addition to the competition flights, balloon illuminations are set for both Friday and Saturday evenings. Live music will be featured on both days, along with a modified kid’s fun zone and a dozen food vendors.

The always popular helicopter rides will be available Friday and Saturday nights, giving attendees a rare opportunity to view the festival, city, and surrounding areas from above.

Make sure to check out the classic car show on Saturday morning, complete with a 60-mile cruise option that will show off the cars to surrounding communities, including Pleasant Lake, Hamilton, Ashley, Orland, and Fremont, with brief stops in all towns.

Admission is free to attend the festival. You are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets so you can spread out and safely enjoy this wonderful community event.