Big Country Balloon Fest coordinated by the Abilene Optimist Club

Now this is a fundraiser!  Last year more than 35,000 people attended the Big Country Balloon Fest in Abilene, Texas.  Coordinated by the Abilene Optimist Club, the event expects to raise approximately $60,000.

Of course what really gets raised are both hot air balloons and spirits. Fourteen balloons took to the sky at the festival, including three different balloons from last year.  There were also family friendly activities throughout the weekend including performances by they Austin End of the Line synchronized kite team, balloon rides, food, entertainment, train rides, pony rides and more.

Photo taken by Jason Holder shows a cluster of balloons during the balloon glow.
Click here to see the complete gallery of pictures in the ReporterNews.