I’m always surprised at how early Balloons Over Bend happens each June, and yes, it’s coming up this weekend, from June 4th through the 6th.

Northwest Community Balloons Over Bend kicks off on Friday, June 4th with a media flight at sunrise from Les Schwab Amphitheater. During the media flight, local media personalities take a test flight with some of the pilots and promote the event to the public.

Saturday morning begins with a balloon launch at sunrise from the Les Schwab Amphitheater.  Early risers are treated to a truly spectacular display, as over 20 hot air balloons inflate and begin their float through the Central Oregon sky against the picturesque Cascade Mountain Range. Later that morning the party starts again at The Old Mill District with live music, a children’s area, delicious food, a beer garden and vendor marketplace. Back by popular demand is the Street Art Exhibition, featuring local and regional artists creating masterpieces on the sidewalks.

On Saturday evening, the sky over The Old Mill District comes alive with The Night Glow. This is an opportunity to get up close and personal with the balloons as they inflate at sundown and provide a spectacular show of colors and patterns against a magical night sky.

Sunday morning early risers are treated with the balloon launch at sunrise from the Les Schwab Amphitheater.  Later that morning the festival continues at The Old Mill District with live music, children’s area, delicious food, beer garden, and various vendors along with the Street Art Exhibition.

Busy weekend, this first one of June; not only are the Beard and Mustache Championships on Saturday, but it’s First Friday downtown as well (not to mention a lot of music playing this weekend).