Gatesway Balloonfest More than 30 hot air balloons execpted for annual event This September, the sky over Claremore will be again filled with hot air balloons and the Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs grounds will be loaded with families enjoying all the festivities of the Annual Gatesway Hot Air Balloon Festival. The family event taking place Sept. 20-22, and feature more than 30 hot air balloons from across Oklahoma, and the country, activities for all ages, live entertainment, arts & crafts vendors and of course, plenty of great food. This installment marks the sixth consecutive year for Will Rogers Downs to host the festival. The large grounds provide the space for numerous family activities, including pony and helicopter rides, children’s activity area and arts and crafts vendors and exhibits. Festival grounds open at 4 p.m. on Sept. 20 and at 7 a.m. on Sept. 21. The festival kicks-off Friday at 5 p.m. with the singing of the National Anthem, followed at 5:30 p.m. with balloon flights and tethered balloon rides. The balloon glow is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. and tentative entertainment will be provided by Chad Lee on the Dog Iron Stage at 9 p.m. Saturday is loaded with a day full of activities, including pancake breakfast, competition flights, a cupcake decorating contest, lawn mower races, tethered balloon rides and a second balloon glow. Saturday’s festivities will conclude with Paul Bogart performing a free concert from the Dog Iron Stage. The festival unofficially concludes Sunday morning with a 7 a.m. balloon flight. All proceeds from this event will be used to continue the programs and services offered to individuals with intellectual disabilities served by Gatesway.
The Gatesway Foundation this year is celebrating 50 years of providing opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities throughout eastern and central Oklahoma. Gatesway offers an array of residential and vocational programs that promote independence and provide opportunities for people with disabilities to improve their quality of life For a full schedule of events and to learn more about The Gatesway Foundation please visit www.gatesway.org. Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs is located three miles east of Claremore on Highway 20. For more information, visit www.cherokeestarrewards.com or call (918) 283-8800.
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