Poteau Celebrates Balloon Fest

Thousands of people made their way to Poteau Saturday for the annual Balloon Fest.

A handful of hot air balloons took off from the LeFlore County Fairgrounds just before sunrise Saturday.

“This weather is perfect for ballooning,” said Tena Ogle, who was flying with her family. “It’s so cool, temperature-wise it’s cool, that you can fly and fly until your propane is out. The weather is just perfect for flying down here.”

Five hot air balloons lifted off Saturday as crowds waved from the ground.

“I’m just happy we were able to go up today,” Ogle said. “Yesterday the wind was just too strong. And the wind is going to take you where you need to go. That means you need winds that are going to carry you softly to where you need to go.”

Friday winds were much stronger, keeping the balloons on the ground.

As the balloons floated above, people on the ground enjoyed rides on a teathered hot air balloon, a helicopter, monster trucks and other traditional carnival rides.

For more information on the Poteau Balloon Fest, CLICK HERE.