Hudson’s Hot Air Affair lifts off Friday

Hudson’s Hot Air Affair, the largest gathering of hot-air balloon enthusiasts in the Midwest, is marking its 25th anniversary this year with a full slate of weekend events beginning Friday.

In honor of the silver anniversary, this year’s theme is “The Silver Screen.” Most of the events are free and take place at E.P. Rock School, 340 13th St. S.

Weather permitting, about 40 balloons will launch on Saturday and Sunday, some in unique shapes.

The festival kicks off Friday night with a torchlight parade featuring blasts of flames, marching kazoo bands and units with movie themes, capped by fireworks over the St. Croix River.

Saturday’s events include the Up, Up and Away 5K Run, kite flying and live music with dancing.

The annual chili cook-off highlights the final day.

For more information, go to hudsonhotairaffair.com.

via – Star Tribune.