West Plains, MO. – With the upcoming festivities coinciding with the Great American Eclipse this weekend, it’s surprising to see two different areas hosting similar occasions featuring hot air balloons. One event is being organized through West Plains’ Party in the Path, and the other through the National Forest Service.
The event happening in West Plains is known as the Hot Air Balloon Glow, and has been made possible through the Children’s Advocacy Center in West Plains. This will happen on Sunday, April 7th, gates will open at 4pm, and it will happen at the Fairgrounds on the north side of West Plains. It will include 6 different hot air balloons, vendors, live music, and fireworks.
Melissa Wharton with the city of West Plains:
The second of these events will be including a national brand icon, Smokey the Bear, and is being organized by not only the National Park Service, but also Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The Smokey the Bear Hot Air Balloon will be present at Big Spring from Saturday through Monday, and will be available to ride each day starting at 7:30.
Emily Ficker, Forest Service Public Information Officer:
