On January 25-27, 2019, the only flying event in Phoenix comes back to the Goodyear Ballpark in Goodyear, Arizona to host to the 8th Annual Arizona Balloon Classic (ABC8) in benefit Valley of the Sun United Way (VSUW). A portion of ABC8’s ticket sales will go directly back to VSUW programs. Additionally, on Saturday morning, VSUW will be hosting a Weekend Hunger Backpack drive in support of its mission to break the cycle of poverty for Valley families.
The Arizona Balloon Classic is Arizona’s premier hot air balloon race & festival that will attract over 20,000 attendees, 80 partners and vendors, and up to 40 hot air balloons across the region. Also featuring our Street FoodFest featuring over 20 local food vendors eats & beer garden, our QuikTrip Family Fun Zone, balloon glows and fireworks spectacular, two (2) stages of entertainment with live music from Milo Matthews, etc., stunt bike riders, cooking demos, hot air balloon rides, hot air balloon tether rides, and more.
In 2019, the Arizona Balloon Classic will consist of multiple “Hare and Hound” Hot Air Balloon races. The “Hare” balloon leaves first to place the “Target” and the rest of the balloons; the “Hounds” chase the “Hare” to the target. The “Hound” balloons are subjected to dropping markers onto a large target on the ground. The closer the marker is to the center of the target; the better chances of qualifying for the $2,500 cash purse presented on Sunday, January 27th.
On Saturday, January 26th, and Sunday, January 27th, morning, races will be open to all spectators and fans are encouraged to watch the hot air balloons as they participate in the “Hare and Hound” races. Evening “Glows” on Friday night, January 25th and Saturday night. The event will be held at the Goodyear Ballpark (1933 S. Ballpark Way – NE corner of Estrella Parkway Goodyear Blvd. in Goodyear, Arizona). In addition, there will be hot air balloon rides, hot air balloon tether rides, For tickets please visit www.abcfest.com for more details.