Famed Citrus Classic Balloon Festival
returning with added attractions
June 25, 2014
By Peggy Kelly
Santa Paula News
One of the few bucket list experiences that actually includes a bucket - or rather, a basket - for the whole family is coming to Santa Paula next month with the 7th Annual Citrus Classic Balloon Festival those attending the June Good Morning Santa Paula learned.
The Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting featured Balloon Festival Founder/Coordinator Carla Edwards who spoke of what’s new at this year’s event, one of the most popular attractions in Southern California.
Said Edwards, “It our seventh annual, believe it or not... that first year, 2008, we were only open Friday evening and Saturday morning,” at the Santa Paula Airport.
An estimated first event crowd of 500 soon swelled to a “standing room only” crush of 5,000 visitors who were delighted with the balloons especially the Friday evening Glow and the Saturday morning take-offs that weather permitted.
This year’s event will be held July 25 and July 26 at Limoneira Soccer Park, off Highway 126.
The event has become so famous that Edwards said “We’re on the cover of the VCReporter Summer Guide, which usually likes to show a recreational activity... about 185,000 people get that guide - and we’re just thrilled to be on the cover!”
The 2014 Citrus Classic will feature evening balloon Glows, the famed Sunset Wine Dinner on Friday, Vintage Trailer Village, Hot Air Balloon Photography Class, a new AfterGlow Party on Saturday, Glow & Show Car Show, food and beer tastings, Sunrise Balloons, a rustic gourmet Craft Beer Dinner by Jason Collis’ Plated Events, a Kids Fun Zone and activities and Santa Paula Airport provided flybys, aerobatic stunts and skydivers.
Edwards said there would also be shuttles to take people to “Discover Downtown Santa Paula!” and WHAT the entire city has to offer for cultural tourism, shopping and fine dining.
Celebrate the AfterGlow at a dawn to dusk party on Saturday featuring glow sticks, glow paint, glow whatever and wherever for an event of glowing fun.
There will be nonstop musical entertainment starting Friday and into Saturday including The Glow headliner - The House Arrest Band!
New this year perfect for those who have been curious about the increasing popularity of vintage trailers - they will wonder no more!
Edwards said “The Classic will offer a unique showcase of 20 to 25 of these beautifully restored and customized vintage trailers on the festival grounds,” where visitors will be able to take a peek inside and talk with trailer owners during the Vintage Trailer Village Open House Friday from 5 to 7 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
These timeless trailers will be displayed next to the Ventura Ranch KOA Teepee.
Edwards said those who join the rally would enjoy a unique camping experience “with memorable festival attractions right at their trailer doorstep... “
The $45 Rally Fee includes entry and reception for two adults, access to 30 amp electric, potable water, and door prizes.
“It’s been more difficult this year with sponsorships, our seed money needed to put on the event and the balloons in the sky,” said Edwards.
“Santa Paula has become synonymous with the Citrus Classic Balloon Festival,” and she noted, “It means a lot to have it here and show off our wonderful city in such a unique way... “
Those interested in displaying their trailers can contact organizers directly at: GlowNShow2014@aol.com or (805) 525-2057.
For more information about the 2014 7th Annual Citrus Classic Balloon Festival or to order tickets online visit:
www.citrusclassicballoons.com
