Last Friday, Sept. 20, the heart of Saint Louis’ very own Forest Park was glowing–literally. Forest park was busy with an estimated 75,000 excited viewers. Why were they there? To see the 29 hot air balloons scattering the center field.

The Balloon Glow takes place from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Forest Park the day before The Great Forest Park Balloon Race, both of which are annual. The park was filled with people and hot air balloons; one of the balloons was made to look like the Energizer Bunny, which begins the race every year.

“It was an awesome time! It is so cool walking amongst the balloons,” senior Colin Clayton said,” and seeing them light up with their different colors.”

When the band is playing, the hot air balloons are lit up by the fire that keeps the balloons a float. All the spectators weave in and out of the balloons and every 15 minutes or so, a horn goes off and every balloon is lit up, thus why it’s called the Balloon Glow.

“It was really cool. Sadly, I couldn’t watch the race.” junior Alexis Allard said.

Around the balloons there are tents with food and glow in the dark toys for the kids. There is usually a Purina Entertainment area blocked off for those willing to pay the $75 dollar fee to get in. Once you get in that area there are pony rides, games and other activities for the kids.

“I’m going back every year that I can go.” Clayton said.

The next day the balloons launched off, with the Energizer Bunny floating high above. The race begins promptly after. This years winner was an independent hot air balloon owner, Joe Nusrala of St. Louis.