Weather grounds morning Freedom Balloon Fest flights
Morning flights of the Freedom Balloon Fest were canceled Saturday because of weather-related issues, event organizers said.
Balloons had been scheduled to take to the skies over Fleming Loop Park shortly after 6 a.m. but fog and low clouds prompted organizers to halt the take offs, said Sarah Hattman, a spokeswoman for the event.
"Meteorologists look at a wide variety of factors to determine if the balloons will launch, including wind, rain, visibility and surrounding weather," Hattman told WRAL.com Saturday morning. She said forecasters will be "closely watching the weather" to determine if the evening flights will go on as planned.
About 80,000 people are expected to attend the festival, which began Friday and will include hot air balloon competitions, tethered rides, live music and a beer and wine garden. The event is scheduled to conclude on Monday.
As with last year, the festival will not be offering official parking lots or shuttle transportation to the venue. Participants should look for parking at private lots if they plan on attending the event this year.
Other events at this year's balloon festival will include arts and crafts displays, live music and animal events.
Saturday's evening schedule of events include evening mass balloon ascensions and flights as long as the weather cooperates.
"The storms will be hit-and-miss but there could be heavy downpours," he said.
