We all know that the middle of July can be very hot, however, the air at Chennault International Airport in Lake Charles will be made even warmer and even more spectacular when that site hosts the Southwest Louisiana Hot Air Baloon Festival.

Festival organizers have released more details about the event and it promises to be so much more than just, well, a bunch of hot air. The two-day event will feature an alcohol-free church night on Friday, July 19th and a barbeque cook-off and beer festival on Saturday, July 20th.

Here is the official line up courtesy of the Visit Lake Charles website.

  • Friday is Church Night (Alcohol-Freel Free)
    • 3:00 pm - Gates open for VIP/youth group church groups
    • 5:00 pm - General Admission gates open
    • 5:30-8:30 pm - Local worship groups
    • 8:45 pm - Balloon Glow
    • 9:00 pm - Fireworks
    • 9:15 pm - Headliner
    • 10:45 pm - Gates close for the day
  • Saturday is the Sanctioned Barbecue Cook-Off and Beer Festival
    • 3:00 pm - Gates open for private beer tasting
    • 5:00 pm - General Admission gates open
    • 5:30-8:30 pm - Local Artist Play
    • 8:45 pm - Balloon Glow
    • 9:00 pm - Fireworks
    • 9:15 pm - Headliner
    • 10:45 pm - Gates close for the day

Ticket prices range from free at participating sponsor locations to a $15 general admission pass. Kids ages 14 and under will be admitted free by the way. You may also purchase tickets for the Beer Festival and VIP passes which include a festival t-shirt, a souvenir beer glass, and other amenities will also be available by following this link.

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