The Star Spangled Banner is played over the PA system as the Fireman takes flight carrying the flag.

Couldn't resist this one...

Balloons must get up and down before approx 9:00am when the sun changes the air currents.

Spectators all cheer and applaud with each launch.

It was borderline-breezy this morning. This little balloon in the distance shot off down the field like a jet!

The balloon fiesta began in 1972 with only 13 balloons.

Forty years later, there are over 500 balloons from multiple nations.

Not all balloons look like "balloons!"

"Airabelle, the Flying Cow"

Gotta admire a pig named "Gut!"

There are over 70 "special shapes" at the fiesta. This one is called "Sushi."