Experience Chester County from the ground up at the 12th annual Chester County Balloon Festival from Friday, June 22 to Sunday, June 24 at the New Garden Flying Field in Toughkenamon.

The Chester County Balloon Festival is a nonprofit with portions of this year’s proceeds benefitting the Chester County Hero Fund and other local youth groups.

“It’s a celebration of the sport of ballooning,” said Deb Harding, an administrator of the festival since its inception who, as a nine-year-old, fell in love with general aviation when she read a book on Amelia Earhart. “It keeps getting bigger every year.”

The 2018 event is full of firsts.

While a longtime supporter, Victory Brewing Company is the new presenting sponsor. Another first includes the Sky Dive Flag Jump, which – along with the National Anthem being sung by South Coatesville Police Chief Kevin Pierce – marks the start of the festival on Friday.

Also new to 2018 is a jet car demonstration, powered paragliding demonstrations, and dog agility demos by the Dog Training Club of Chester County. Reality television star Ken Cage, from the Discovery Channel’s Airplane Repo, will serve as emcee on Saturday.

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The colorful balloons are still the showstopper. More than 20 hot air balloons will launch in mass on Friday and Saturday. The popular balloon glow show will start just before dusk on Friday and Saturday.

Balloon flights will be available at both sunrise and in the evening for those wishing to experience Chester County like you never have before. While flights can be purchased on site, it’s recommended that they be purchased in advance. Tethered balloon flights will available, as well as the opportunity to walk into a balloon for that bucket-list selfie!

Back by popular demand are Monster Truck and Helicopter Rides, an expanded Kids Zone with bungee jumpers, knocker ball, and bounce houses. The display on the region’s balloon history will be back, along with an interactive ballooning workshop geared toward the younger crowd.

Guests can expect a lot of local craft and business vendors. Live music will also be played throughout the event.

Gates will be open to the public during the following hours:

• Friday, June 22: 4-9 PM
• Saturday, June 23: 2-10 PM
• Sunday, June 24: 12-7 PM

Click here to see the full list of activities and event schedule.

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