Hot air balloons to fill the skies in Ceres. See how you could hop in for a lift

What kid wouldn’t want a chance to hop into a hot air balloon basket and take to the skies?

What adult, for that matter? (Those with acrophobia notwithstanding.)

You can grab that chance – with an important weather-permitting caveat – at this year’s Skies the Limit Hot Air Balloon Festival in Ceres.

The event is our June highlight in a monthly feature that offers fresh ideas to parents for getting out and about with their children in the Modesto region.

Set for Saturday, June 14, at River Bluff Regional Park, you’ll have to get up early for the opportunity. The festival runs 5 a.m. to noon, with balloon launches planned to start at 6 a.m.

“Against the backdrop of local scenery, multiple brilliantly colored hot air balloons will lift off in the morning, painting the sky with a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of color,” according to a press release

Children and adults can float in tethered hot air balloon rides for $10. The festival itself is free to attend.

This will mark the third annual balloon celebration in Ceres. Winds were too high last year for more than one to fly.

“This vibrant, family-friendly event promises a weekend filled with color, excitement and unforgettable aerial displays,” according to a release.

Among the activities:

▪ Cold-inflate balloon walkthrough: Step inside a giant balloon as it inflates on the ground.

▪ Helicopters on scene (they are active emergency aircraft and may leave at any time if called into service).

▪ Live music

▪ A car show

▪ Toy and craft vendors

▪ A variety of other vendors

▪ Food and treats, including kid-friendly meals, sweets and drinks

▪ Event T-shirts for purchase

People are encouraged to arrive early for the best views. River Bluff Regional Park is at 3761 E. Hatch Road in Ceres. For information, see www.ceres.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=1049.

“This event is about more than just balloons – it’s about bringing the community together and inspiring wonder,” Jessica Pulliam, a Ceres recreation supervisor who helped organize the event, said in a release. “Whether you’re 5 or 95, watching a sky full of balloons never loses its magic.”