BEAUMONT, Texas — You’ll be able to get a birds-eye view of Mardi Gras in Beaumont by going up, up and away (kind of) in a hot air balloon.
If you’re at least 48 inches tall you’ll be able to purchase a lift in a tethered balloon above the Great Lawn at the Beaumont Event Centre.
The balloons will be available for tethered "rides" beginning around 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
On Friday and Saturday nights (February 21-22) around 9 p.m. right after the main parades and the fireworks the sky above the Great Lawn will be lit up during a “balloon glow.”
A “balloon glow” is usually held after a balloon festival when multiple balloons are gathered in a large field and kept on the ground.
Adults are able to ride for $20 and kids can ride for $10.
Propane burners are ignited to keep the balloons inflated but they don’t ascend, however the light from the propane flames causes the huge balloon to glow like a giant Chinese lantern.
The public will be allowed to walk among the balloons during the glow which is sure to make great photos!
The public is also invited to join the “Balloon Krewe” which is described as a “once in a lifetime opportunity” according to the Mardi Gras of Southeast Texas website.
The “Balloon krewe” is limited to the first 20 people who volunteer by calling the Mardi Gras office at (409) 721-8717. Ask for Lisa.
