Forest Park Balloon Race Program 2018

10 The Great Forest Park Balloon Race • Presented by PNC Bank Frequently Asked Questions What is the cost to attend the GFPBR? The GFPBR is the oldest and largest FREE balloon event in the country. There is no cost for admission into the Balloon Glow or Balloon Race. Concessions, souvenirs and certain special activities will be available for purchase. How is the winner of the race determined? The Great Forest Park Balloon Race presented by PNC is a Hare and Hound-style race. “Orange Blossom,” The PNC Bank hot air balloon is the “Hare” and leads the pack, launching and landing first. Once “Orange Blossom” lands, the team lays an “X” out on the ground as a target. The other “Hound” balloons launch in pursuit and the pilot who drops his birdseed/bean bag nearest the center of the target is the winner! What is a balloon glow? On Friday evening at dusk into the evening, the pilots inflate their balloons and blast the propane burners, which releases a burst of fire into the balloon. The balloons “glow” like huge fireflies, a truly magical scene, and one not to be missed! The balloons do not launch during the balloon glow but for a portion of the evening the rope line will be released and spectators will be invites to walk around to enjoy the view and chat with pilots and crew. How close can I get to the balloons? Friday night’s GLOW event will offer a special opportunity for spectators to get up close to the balloons and their pilots and crew. During a portion of the evening the rope line is released allowing attendees to enjoy the view, take photos and meet our world-class pilots! On Saturday, RACE DAY, according to FAA regulations pilots, race crew and event coordinators are the only people allowed on the race “field.” But no need to worry, spectators at the event will be permitted just behind our rope line – close enough to see the action. Where do the balloons land? The balloons land in different areas every year depending on which way the wind is blowing. In the past, balloons have landed in all corners of the St. Louis metropolitan area and surrounding communities. You never know when a balloon might land on your street or a parking lot near your home! What happens to the GFPBR in the event of bad weather? Safety is our number one priority for both pilots and spectators of the event. Every effort is made to reasonably carry on with the event in spite of cold or hot weather. High winds can delay balloon ascension and the GFPBR leaves the decision to launch up to each individual pilot. The balloon race has only been cancelled twice due to rain since its inception in 1973. Will the balloons take off in high winds? High winds can delay or cancel the ascension of the balloons. Each pilot is uniquely qualified to make the determination whether they feel comfortable flying in gustier winds. Bloom Café serves a fresh take on casual dining while helping people with disabilities grow their independence through a unique job training program. We are located just steps away from Forest Park and the St. Louis Science Center. Visit us for breakfast or lunch Monday-Saturday from 7 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. ORDER ONLINE FOR PICK UP OR DELIVERY ©2018 Bloom Café. All Rights Reserved. 5200 Oakland Ave. | St. Louis 314-65-BLOOM | thebloom.cafe Connect with Us