Appearing for the 25th time in Battle Creeks Field of Flight and Air Show history, will be the United States Air Force Thunderbirds. Featured as one of America’s top-precision aerial demonstration teams, the Thunderbirds, over 60 hot-air balloons and an array of aerial demonstration teams will color the skies over W.K. Kellogg Airport during the 2008 event that will be held the week of July 2 - July 6.
As one of Michigan’s largest family festivals, the event began in 1980 with only hot-air balloons and has grown to become one of the largest air shows in the country. “The hot-air balloons will always have a special place at our event, said Barbara Haluszka, Executive Director. “But adding the air shows has definitely put us on the map in the aviation world.”
This will be like a homecoming for the Thunderbirds. “We are so excited to have the Thunderbirds return to Battle Creek, stated Haluszka. “In fact, we are only one of two cities in Michigan to even have a jet team.” The only time they have missed performing in Battle Creek, is in times of war or when they have scheduled performances outside the United States. The Thunderbirds fly six very powerful F-16C jets with precision, demonstrating the capabilities of the powerful aircraft.
Spectators will be in awe with the overall action packed air show. Over 11 additional top aerobatic stunt performers including flying P-51 Heritage Flight; Dacy’s Super Stearman & Wingwalking, Oliver’s DeHavilland Super Chipmunk & Skywriting, Skip Stewart’s Bi-planes, Herb & Ditto’s Smokin’ T-28, Aerostars 3-Ship Yak, Bill Stein’s Edge 540, L-39 Hoppers, Greg Koontz and the Alabama Boys Comedy Routine, Greg Koontz and The Super Decathlon, an F-15 Demo, P-51 Heritage Flight, the F-104 Demo Team and so much more.
Weather permitting, balloon launches are scheduled each morning at 6:30 am and each evening at 6:30 pm. “The balloons will either launch from the field at the W. K. Kellogg Airport, or will fly directly over the field and spectators in hopes of hitting various targets,” added Haluszka. “Either way, spectators can watch multi-colored spots on the ground turn in to a seven story tall kaleidoscope of color.”
As the sky comes to life, the airport grounds will be filled with activities. There will be Arts & Crafts booths; Novelty booths with t-shirts, sunglasses and gift items; food booths that will satisfy even the pickiest of taste buds. From ribs to taco’s; chicken on a stick to corn dogs; deli sandwiches to pork roast and ice cream to elephant ears. Spectators can visit the corporate displays enjoy balloon illumes and listen to the music from center stage as various bands perform.
For the first time, the Virtual Army Experience (VAE) will provide participants with a virtual test drive of the United States Army. The core of the 19,500-square-foot VAE is the Americas Army computer game, rendered with state-of-the-art Army training simulation technology to create a life-size, networked virtual world.
Other highlights include the ever-popular Free Style Motorcycle Stunt Team, which will leave you speechless as they perform stunts mid-air by jumping from ramp to ramp! For the first time, the event will hold a “Bike” Night and have Monster Truck rides. Practice your bowling and get ready to compete in the “World’s Longest Strike” competition. Get a strike and you could be the sole winner of $1,000.00!
July 3rd is designated “Kids” Day. A variety of activities are planned that will keep your young ones occupied. Additionally, plan a day at the Carnival with over 35 fun rides and chance games. Buy a wrist band and ride rides for hours, there is no additional entry fee to the carnival, its all part of the package.
The event would not be complete without the July 4th Fireworks show. Lasting for over 23 minutes, each shell is choreographed to dance to the music. The fireworks can be seen almost everywhere, but, the spectacular fireworks ground display is a must to see.
You won’t want to miss the fun! Plan a family trip to this summer’s Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show and Balloon Festival July 2 – July 6, 2008. For more information and daily schedules visit the website at www.bcballoons.com or call Battle Creek Balloon Championships at 269-962-0592.