Vevay (IN) to host Switzerland County’s first Hot Air Balloon Rally-2012 June 22, 2012

****Event Times: Fri., June 22 at 7:30pm-8:30pm & Sat., June 23 at 4:00pm-7:00pm*****

The Ohio River in Vevay, IN will be the backdrop for Switzerland County’s inaugural Hot Air Balloon Rally. The festivities begin on Fri., June 22 and will continue throughout Sat., June 23. Held in Paul Ogle Riverfront Park off of Ferry Street, all events are free and open to the public.

The rally kicks off Fri. evening June 22 with children’s activities from 7:30-8:00pm at the park. Youths up to age 12 can enjoy glow sticks, glow in the dark games, glow stick balloons, glowing bubbles and more before the Balloon Glow. The “glow” features one lighted balloon from 8:30-9:30pm.

“We are excited to debut such a unique event here in Vevay,” said Steve Danglade, executive director of Switzerland County Tourism. “We invite locals and visitors to come out and spend some time along the riverfront to enjoy the vibrant balloons and festivities.”

A community and balloonist picnic will be held on Sat., June 23 at Paul Ogle Park from 2:00-5:00pm., the same day as Switzerland County hosts a county-wide yard sale from 11am-5pm. Visitors are encouraged to shop and then dine at local eateries or inside the park amidst the excitement of the balloon race preparation.

Under the direction of Jerry Copas, president of the Louisville Ballooning Club, spectators can view around 15 hot air balloons at the park at 4:00pm. The official launch will begin around 5:00pm with landing expected around 7:00pm.

In case of inclement weather, contact the Switzerland County Visitors Center at 812-427-3237 for up-to-the-minute information and balloon launch status. Attendees are encouraged to check for updates on the Switzerland County Tourism Facebook and Twitter accounts in case of poor weather conditions.

This year’s Hot Air Balloon Rally is sponsored by Switzerland County Tourism, West Main Supply in Vevay, and Blue Flame of Madison.

“We hope to make this an annual event,” said Danglade. “Invite family and friends, bring a camera, and experience a memorable time in Vevay.”

For more information, contact Switzerland County Tourism at 812.427.3237 or log on to www.switzcotourism.com. Information is also available by e-mailing Ashley Trimble at ashleytrimble@vevayin.com or by checking out the Switzerland County Tourism Fan Page on Facebook or SwitzCoTourism on Twitter.

Official Website: http://www.switzcotourism.com