44TH ANNUAL HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL

Before the sun rose, fans had gathered at the Clovis Rodeo grounds to witness the 44th annual hot air balloon festival. The festival takes place every year in October, bringing hundreds of people to the free event.

“I think how exciting it was, we talked about all the people that were here. The community spirit, it was pretty cool to see all these people in the dark and you had this huge crowd and everybody was happy. It’s a good part of life.” says Kelly Magill, a fan who said it was her first time visiting the festival.

After the sun rose, everyone waited patiently for the balloons to take takeoff. Since the balloons took off right after day-break, those who were interested in witnessing the lift off had to get there early.

“We got here at seven, so we’ve been for about forty five minutes now,” said Temma Curry who had been patiently waiting.

Sandy and Don Gill also arrived early that morning: “We got here at, what, six fifteen? About a little after six.”

After the sun rose, the crowd began to cheer as the balloons took off at around eight. The sky was then filled with enormous, colorful balloons.

Soon after the balloons were in the air, fans turned their attention to grabbing a quick bite and some warm refreshments.

“We were just about to go get coffee. So we’re on our way to get coffee. Had some coffee at home, now we need another coffee.” said Sandy and Don Gill as they both laughed.

The event sparked the beginning of Clovisfest. If you missed this festival, Big Hat Days is right around the corner in the Spring.