Buddhist monks enjoy a day out at the QuickCheck NJ Festival of Ballooning, July 28, 2018. Photo by Jeff Sovelove
The fog forced a short hold, and the threat of thunderstorms prompted officials to relocate the launching area from the muddy field to the end of runway 22.
Unable to do their usual mass ascension, officials instead launched eight to 10 balloons at a time. Soon the skies were filled with colorful sights.
FLYING HIGH, SLIDESHOW PHOTOS BY JEFF SOVELOVE. HOVER/ CLICK ON IMAGES FOR CAPTIONS:
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Crowd favorites included Tweety Bird, Elvis (complete with sequined jumpsuit) and the Wonder Bread balloon.
SECURITY WAS TIGHT at the QuickCheck NJ Festival of Ballooning, July 28, 2018. Photo by Jeff Sovelove
PNC Bank brought the largest flying American Flag balloon, much to everyone’s delight.
Other perennial favorites included the Bimbo (pronounced “bee-mbo”) bear, a giant Panda, and tethered balloon rides for the adventurous.
There also were traditional fair favorites like kettle corn, the Oscar Meyer Weinermobile, rides for the kids, free samples, and of course hot dogs.
It turned out to be a beautiful day, with the QuickChek New Jersey Festival of Ballooning flying high for the 38th year in a row.
HALF THE FUN’S ON THE GROUND: BALLOON FEST SLIDESHOW BY JEFF SOVELOVE. HOVER/ CLICK ON IMAGES FOR CAPTIONS:
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FIGHTER ESCORT for the QuickCheck NJ Festival of Ballooning, July 28, 2018. Photo by Jeff Sovelove
