Wisconsin Rapids Balloon Rally

The Children's Miracle Network Balloon Rally at Alexander Field Airport in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin will be held August 24 - 26,. 2007. The event features about 20 hot air balloons which participate in the balloon rally, The family will enjoy airplanes rides, helicopter rides, music, petting zoo and lot's of fun.

Take the family to Wisconsin Rapids for a really fun event and benefit charity at the same time.

The Children's Miracle Network is a national charity that helps children by supporting improved health care for millions of young people around the world. Contributions to the Children's Miracle Network benefit a variety of pediatric programs and services. CMN battles virtually every type of childhood illness and injury.

There is no admission to attend the Wisconsin Rapids Balloon Rally. Donations are accepted at the event.

The event opens on Friday at 5 pm. A red hawk, which is a rehabilitated bird, will be released into the sky on Friday. Hot air balloons will be launched., Bands will play music and the food vendors and beer tent will provides refreshments. Bands include Ron and Lu Music for You, Twistortion, Ska'tTsmen, Brother Tedd & the Jumpshire Blues Band, and the Lizardz.

Saturday is a full day of activities,including: hot air balloon launch, music, beer, food and more. At 6 pm there will be moment of silences with a release of 20 doves and a balloon release tribute. Bands include Thursday's Project, Kosmic Sounds, SLM, Pistols at Dawn, The aTomix, Relentless and The Weavils. At 9 pm fireworks will light up the sky.

Sunday morning features a 7 am balloon launch and pancake breakfast.

Airplane rides will be available for purchase throughout the weekend.

Balloon rides will not be available for purchase during the event, however there will be a display posted at the rally with telephone numbers of pilots who offer hot air balloon rides.

Wisconsin Rapids Information

Wisconsin Rapids is a great getaway destination. Attractions in Wisconsin Rapids include Rainbow Casino, Alexander House, Golden Sands Speedway, The Wisconsin River, Down on the Farm, Sandhill Wildlife Area and the Wisconsin Rapids Municipal Zoo. Visitors who want to make an overnight trip of it can find accommodations at the area hotels. Following are some of the top rated hotels in Wisconsin Rapids:

Hotel Mead & Conference Center, A Marcus Hotel. Designed in the spirit of an English style Inn. Amenities include a large indoor swimming pool, Manhattan inspired lounge, sauna, game room, fitness facility and more. Dine at Cafe Malino and Grand Avenue Grill. AAA Three Diamond. 800-THE-MEAD.

Sleep Inn & Suites. Amenities include indoor swimming pool, cable television, high speed Internet access and free breakfast. AAA Three Diamond. 715-424-6800.

Americinn Motel & Suites. Amenities include indoor swimming pool, whirlpool, free continental breakfast, AAA Three Diamond. 800-396-5007.

Best Western Rapids Motor Inn 715-423-3211.

Quality Inn. 715-423-5506.

Driving distance, approximate: Chicago 250 miles, Milwaukee 175 miles, Madison 110 miles, MInneapolis 200 miles.

Information subject to change.