To inflate the balloons, they first use a big fan, and then when there's some air in the balloon so it can hold its shape, they bring out the burner.  Pretty impressive flame.



Here everyone is preparing for the "mass ascenscion," where 120 balloons launched in about 30 minutes.  Up in the sky, to the left, is the first balloon that was launched (after the dawn patrol), a giant eagle.


Although most of the balloons were the standard shape, there were a few odd ones.  Here are the Burger Kind and some champagne company balloons.



More odd shapes, including a whiskey bottle and Mrs. Butterworths.



This pig was absolutely hilarious.  Yes, that is the real color (at least on my monitor), bright pink.  It was sponsored by a bank.


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