Up, up and away~

The Atlantic Balloon Fiesta, known locally as the Sussex Balloon Festival or the Sussex BalloonFest is one of the best events I’ve ever attended, anywhere. Of course, all the conditions have to be right for any balloon launch–wind, temperature, and risk of thunderstorms, but when everything lines up it is beautiful, unforgettable and a thrill for the kid in all of us. 

Just a little bit insane~

Slideshow of a balloon launch~

Images, in the order they were taken.

What’s going on?

Besides the equestrian events that went on all day at the Equestrian Centre, a large indoor market in the Sports Arena and the Seniors’ Centre was filled with vendors. There was also a bandstand, homemade goods and arts and crafts, outdoor vendors and displays, midway rides, a car show on Sunday, and of course–food. Let’s not forget about the food. 

The Food~

Besides the regular midway fare a complete outdoor food court was set up with some interesting alternatives as well.

The Car Show & Shine~

Just a couple of the antique vehicles in the excellent car show that was on Sunday. These were some of the ones that were parked in the shade and gave a nice respite on a rather warm day. 

Notes~  

In 2023 this event will be held over a four day period fromThursday to Sunday. Balloon rides are twice a day– 7:30 am and 5:30 pm. The balloon launch in the evening is always at 5:30 pm weather permitting. The Car Show & Shine is always on Sunday. No dogs are now allowed during this event, you can check the website for more info.

Like all events everywhere, things are still recovering a bit from Covid. The number of vendors available, the number of volunteers available, the number of people attending– all these elements have been below their pre-Covid high. However, it will all come back, and my guess is weather permitting 2023 will be a great success. Although the images on this page are from 2014 the format is still the same.

I’ve enjoyed many good events at Princess Louise Park. The Canada Day celebrations with one of the best fireworks displays I’ve ever seen up close, a wide variety of equestrian events all summer long, trade shows, the Sussex Flea Market in August and of course the Balloon Fiesta. The town certainly makes great use of this park and it really is a credit to this area.

Sources~

Atlantic Balloon Fiesta~ Incredible event held the weekend after Labour Day.

Sussex Flea Market & Antique Auto Show~ Website for the event held 3rd weekend in August.

N.B Antique Auto Club Inc.~ Group that hosts the flea market. 

Princess Louise Park~ Town of Sussex website.

Princess Louise Park Show Centre~ Major equestrian centre, dog agility, 4-H, trade shows, etc.

8th Hussars Sports Centre~ Major multi purpose arena, ice hockey, trade shows, roller skating, etc.

Golden Jubilee Hall Seniors’ Centre~  Multi purpose building in centre of park, meetings, vendors, etc.

Links~

Sussex Flea Market & Antique Auto Show~ Incredible event held every August.

Princess Lousie Park~ Dorothy’s article on “best all-in-one park I’ve ever seen.”