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Return of the 39th Atlantic Balloon Fiesta to the skies of Sussex

Hot-air balloon rides will be offered twice daily throughout the weekend at the Atlantic Balloon Fiesta, contingent upon weather conditions.

Annual Atlantic Balloon Fiesta soars back into the firmament of Sussex
Annual Atlantic Balloon Fiesta soars back into the firmament of Sussex

Return of the 39th Atlantic Balloon Fiesta to the skies of Sussex

The 39th Atlantic Balloon Fiesta: A Spectacle of Hope and Anticipation

The skies of Sussex, N.B., are filled with anticipation as the 39th Atlantic Balloon Fiesta takes flight from Thursday through Sunday. This annual event, renowned for its variety of family-friendly activities, has drawn crowds of enthusiasts eager to witness the colourful spectacle above.

Despite the initial setbacks, the first official flight of the fiesta is scheduled for Thursday evening. Morning and evening flights are planned for each day of the event, offering attendees multiple opportunities to marvel at the aerial ballet. However, the flights were delayed by over an hour on the opening day due to fog and a ceiling below 1,000 feet, adhering to regulations set by Transport Canada. Cancelling flights due to weather is not uncommon for festival organisers over the nearly four decades of the event.

Pilot Jacob Benjamin expressed his disappointment at not being able to fly, prioritising safety over enjoyment. The pilots share this sentiment, understanding the importance of a secure environment for both participants and spectators. Alannah Pearson, the flight coordinator, remains hopeful for flights over the weekend, emphasising the significance of safety in decision-making regarding flights.

The disappointment felt by the pilots is not shared by all. Hadassah Harper, an attendee, found the tethered balloon ride to be an unforgettable experience, despite initial fear. Skylar, another attendee, described the tethered balloon ride as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, providing a sense of hope and excitement for the remainder of the fiesta.

In addition to the balloon flights, the event features a variety of activities for families. Amusement rides, food and craft vendors, live music, and an antique car show on Sunday are just a few of the attractions that make the Atlantic Balloon Fiesta a must-attend event for many.

For those interested in staying updated on the flight statuses, the fiesta's website and Facebook page provide regular updates. The search results do not provide information on the person or institution organising the 39th Atlantic Balloon Fiesta in 2022.

As the fiesta progresses, the field is transformed into a sea of inflated balloons, providing a visual feast for the eyes. Even if the flights don't go up, the setup remains a spectacle worth witnessing. Pearson believes that the event's spirit of camaraderie and shared passion for aviation makes it a success, regardless of the weather conditions.

The 39th Atlantic Balloon Fiesta continues to captivate the hearts and minds of attendees, offering a unique blend of excitement, education, and community spirit. For those in the province, a dedicated provincial page offers more New Brunswick news on the event, ensuring no one misses out on the action.

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