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Hot air balloon travel is the oldest human flight device. Ballooning dates back to 1783 when the first untethered manned balloon took flight in France. They can be propelled by wind or forced air.
Over the years hot air balloons of all kinds have been deployed including those shaped as our favorite animals and cartoon characters. There have even been balloons shaped like large castles and cathedrals to commemorate events.
Each July come to Dutchess County, New York to the Mid Hudson Balloon Festival. Sponsored and promoted by the Poughkeepsie Area Chamber of Commerce balloonists from both New York and New Jersey will pilot their balloons over the beautiful landscape of the Hudson Valley.
The festival has been an annual event since 1992. During the two day event, pilots offer balloon rides that usually last two to three hours. Roughly a dozen pilots make their way out to festival every year. During normal conditions 8 to 10 pilots are normally flying.
During the entire festival, a variety of other activities take place at a local city park. In addition to family shows and rides, carnival games will be on hand to challenge and entertain. Music and old cars will also be included to take spectators back in time and to listen to the oldies. Fireworks over the majestic Hudson River will complete the festival.
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