Wellsville Balloon Rally is ready to soar. What to know about forecast, events, parking
All systems are go for the 46th annual Great Wellsville Balloon Rally.
The weekend weather forecast looks generally positive for four scheduled launches from Island Park in the village, starting with the rally's opening lift-off at 6 p.m. today.
The other mass hot air balloon launches are slated for Saturday, at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., and Sunday, at 6 a.m.
There is no admission cost for the rally, which features roughly two dozen hot air balloons soaring among the rural Western New York foothills and above the picturesque Genesee River.
For attendees, Island Park's designated spectator areas provide ample room and visual access to the balloon activities and the launches. Vendors, restroom facilities and shuttle access are all provided.
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There is no smoking or alcohol permitted at the rally site and spectators are discouraged from bringing pets.
Here's a few things to know as the hours count down to the start of one of Allegany County's most popular annual events.
Weather forecast favorable for hot air ballooning
Ideal conditions for successful hot air balloon flights, according to veteran rally organizers, are winds less than five miles per hour, no thunderstorms within 80 miles of Wellsville, no fog and cool temperatures.
The weekend forecast generally fits the bill, although there is a chance for some scattered showers, with potentially a few thunderstorms mixed in tonight, according to Buffalo-based National Weather Service Office meteorologist Phillip Pandolfo.
“However, the weekend is looking significantly better. We are anticipating dry weather through the weekend," Pandolfo said.
Temperatures on Saturday are expected to be fairly cool, Pandolfo said, with highs in the mid 70s.
“If fog does develop, it should clear off shortly after sunrise there," Pandolfo said.
Temperatures will be slightly warmer on Sunday, climbing into the upper 70s, Pandolfo said, but neither wind or fog are expected be factors.
The Balloonmeister makes the final decision on whether balloons may go up, based on the conditions. The 2023 Balloonmeister is Bill Childs, pilot of the Child's Play hot air balloon, and a veteran of the Wellsville rally.
Balloon Rally parking and more
There is no parking at the launch site, but there is parking across the river from the site (a footbridge spans the river). Parking signs will be posted to direct spectators.
There is free shuttle service between the site and several locations, including the Riverwalk Shopping Center, the Northern Lights Shopping Center and the McDonald’s parking lot in front of Save-A-Lot.
Organizers advise that it is best to arrive by 5 p.m. for the evening launches and by 6 a.m. for morning flights.
Main Street Festival, fireworks, music help make rally special
Even when the hot air balloons are on the ground, there are plenty of activities planned to keep thousands of visitors busy, including a Main Street festival, live music, a balloon afterglow and fireworks.
A hot air balloon afterglow is scheduled for 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. today.
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The always popular Balloon Rally Festival takes over Main Street following the Saturday morning launch, with scores of sidewalk sales, games, food and other activities running from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Back at Island Park Saturday night, along with the scheduled launch, the band Zoar will perform from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Fireworks will follow at the conclusion of Zoar's performance.
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This article originally appeared on The Evening Tribune: The 46th annual Great Wellsville Balloon Rally soars this weekend
