When the balloons began to ascend into the skies Friday evening, it was another picture-perfect night for flying. With gentle winds, the balloons drifted out of the airport to the northeast into a cloudless sky. Later in the evening, they returned for the glow, and guests were treated to various flickers.

Pictures by Nila Smith

This young lady shows folks on the ground how easy it is to get down the wall once you climb up it.

Perhaps that convinced her sister to give it a go also.

Before the launch, pilots met in the VIP tent for their pre-flight meeting.

Andi Hake, director of the Lincoln/Logan Chamber of Commerce welcomed the pilots and thanked them for being a part of this year's festival.

Mayor Keith Snyder read aloud a proclamation declaring Aug. 27 as Max Mitchell Day in the city of Lincoln.

Who would have thought you could buy an airplane at a garage sale?

Paul Gleason was at the airport helping Geoff Ladd of the Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau hand out information on the festival as well as all of Logan County.

JoAnne Marlin was also on hand, selling raffle tickets for a lovely balloon-themed quilt.

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