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Walla Walla County Fairgrounds

Photos from the 2010 Balloon Stampede....

If you've ever been interested in learning about hot air balloons, this is the place for you.  Walla Walla's annual Balloon Stampede.  Here you'll be able to wander among the balloons and balloonists, as they deploy their vehicles.  Now in it's 37th year, it's held at Walla Walla's Fairgrounds on May 13-15, 2011. 

Long-time announcer Jim Bock will say "Walla Walla Hot Air Ballooooooon Stampeeeeeeeeedah" hundreds of times throughout the weekend...  You'll get used to it.

  Nite Glow is a popular event, held on Saturday night at the Fairgrounds.  A dozen or so balloons will inflate at the infield of the fairgrounds bleachers - making for a wonderful photo opportunity.  Your camera will get a workout all weekend.

Weather plays a significant role in whether or not the balloons launch, which is usually early in the morning.  Launches are scheduled for 6:30 a.m. each day of the event, but plan on getting there earlier if you want to find a parking spot, and really experience the event as you watch the teams inflate and depart the field.

 During the weekend, it's not unusual to see a balloon over Walla Walla at any time of day, as long as the weather permits.   There is also an arts and crafts fair at the Fairgrounds associated with the event - lots of fair-food and vendors, music, etc...

The Stampede is a "hit or miss" event - meaning that you can see a picture perfect event like 2010's event, or weather can scrap the whole weekend.  Plan (and dress!) accordingly!  Early mornings can be quite cold at the Garrison Middle School launch site, across from the Walla Walla Fairgrounds.  Bring your camera!

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