One of the area’s most popular Memorial Day events is the Chagrin Valley Jaycees’ Blossom Time in Chagrin Falls—this year running this Thursday, May 21 through Sunday, May 24. The theme this year is “Red, White, and Blossom: Celebrating 250 Years of America.”

Firing up a balloon!The weekend is filled with activities like the Blossom Carnival, the Blossom Time Run and Kids Fun Run, Taste of Chagrin, vendors, and plenty of entertainment.

One of Blossom Time’s most anticipated traditions happens around dusk on Thursday, when hot air balloons light up the grounds around Chagrin Falls High School during Balloon Glow—the spectacle that signals the beginning of Blossom Time.

Balloon Glow extends to aviation’s oldest tradition, going back to France in the late 18th century. Hot air balloons provided the first tentative steps into the sky for previously ground-bound humans.

After 250 years, the motive power remains the same—the wind brings movement to these colorful envelopes, while hot air provides lift. Their near silent progress through the sky is guided almost by where the wind takes them.

The event is entirely weather dependent.

If calm clear skies prevail, ground observers are in for a real spectacle as multiple balloons take to the air at once.

Jim Makowaki, the pilot of the 'All fired up' hot air balloon.The balloonist and passengers still ride in a wicker basket suspended from the balloon by cables. The burner that heats the air provides an occasional burst of intrusive sound during a flight otherwise conducted in near silence.

No clattering internal combustion engine, and no roar of a jet.

Depending on altitude, the balloon’s occupants can often speak with observers on the ground.
The only experience that comes close is an almost-equally-silent flight in a glider.

This year’s Balloon Glow is on Thursday, May 21. The balloons will take off from the athletic fields at approximately 8 p.m., weather permitting.

Visitors will be treated to a good look at the very earliest form of aviation, and a chance to experience the same wonder of those who witnessed a balloonist’s first ascent in the aftermath of the American Revolution.

The FreshWater staff thanks the Chagrin Falls History Center for background information and the Chagrin Falls Jaycees for providing access to the balloons for the photos.