Twelfth annual Balloons & Tunes Roundup celebrates community spirit and positivity

KANAB - The 12th an­nual Balloons & Tunes Roundup returned to Kanab over the third weekend of February, bringing music, light and community pride, despite winter weather challenges.

Left: People hold their paper lanterns in the air, waiting for them to rise. Right: Just some the people who work tirelessly to put this event on. Photos courtesy of the Office of Tourism

While pilots and specta­tors hoped for morning bal­loon launches, conditions proved unpredictable. With the exception of one brave “cowboy pilot” on Satur­day, balloons remained grounded. His swift drift toward the western cliffside quickly demonstrated why pilots made the cautious decision not to fly. Several balloons inflated for pho­tos, giving attendees an up-close experience even without full liftoffs.

Friday night’s Lantern Launch was a standout success. More than 1,000 lanterns floated into the night sky during a 90 min­ute launch window, creat­ing a breathtaking display.

Thanks to moisture from Thursday’s snowstorm, Fire Chief Pierson had no safety concerns and gave the green light for the launch, allowing families to enjoy the glowing spectacle.

Once snowmelt cleared the roads, the Vendor and Entertainment Fair was off and running under sunny skies and a crisp breeze. Food trucks and vendors braved the cold, serving visitors throughout the weekend. Live entertain­ment featured a full lineup of bands and a crowd-pleas­ing juggler performance.

Saturday’s noon program included a special nod to the upcoming America 250 celebration this July. The Kanab Elementary School Choir performed the Na­tional Anthem alongside a flag presentation by the local American Legion Post. Kanab fifth graders work­ing toward their Patriot Award proudly recited the Preamble to the Constitu­tion earning enthusiastic applause.

Although Saturday night’s traditional Balloon Glow on Center Street did not occur, pilots created an unforgettable moment at Main and Center with a coordinated candlestick burn. The powerful ring of flame lit up the night and warmed spectators gath­ered nearby.

This year’s event wel­comed 40 pilots and was made possible by generous sponsors, including Willow Canyon, Wild Thyme, Zion Stays, State Bank of South­ern Utah, Best Friends, Moqui Cave, Kanab City, Travelodge, Springhill Suites, Hampton, Holiday Inn, Aikens Lodge, Parry Lodge and Comfort Suite and AmeriGas for propane. Thank you to our nearly 100 volunteers and a special thank you was extended to longtime supporter Dave Baird of Come Fly With Us for his continued dedication to the event.

Planning is already underway for next year. Balloons & Tunes Roundup is always held the third weekend of February.