The entire Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival is designed to be enjoyable for the entire family. The alcohol-free event includes several events and performers of particular interest to youngsters.

The popular Indian village from the first Ohio Challenge event will return. Southern Singers, an authentic Indian performing group, will demonstrate Native American dancing, drumming, singing and flute playing. Guests will have a chance to observe tribal traditions and ask questions or examine the authentic costumes.

A Balloon Discovery Center (open until the balloon launch in the evening)  will feature several free activities for children including a story time and puppet show presented by the Middletown Public Library and a display of art work from area elementary students.  A balloon-related art contest was held earlier this spring. Top winners of the contest were: 1st place  Kyrstien Saunders of Wilson Elementary, 2nd Place Samantha Colter of Wilson and 3rd Place Alek Teague of Taft.

Also in the Discovery Center, there will be bubble painting with straws, face painting, hot air balloon toss game, temporary tattoos, color your own hot air balloon and giant twister games. An oversize wooden balloon to peer through or pose for a photo has been designed by local volunteer Tom Pressler.

Throughout the weekend, a carnival presented by Murray Brothers will be on site offering rides and games.

The Busy Bee cold-air inflated balloon will allow children to walk through a real balloon for $1 per child.

When the balloons fly, twice each day weather permitting, children of all ages will enjoy the huge Oggy the Dragon hot air balloon sponsored by MidFirst Credit Union.

A giant soccer ball will also be rolling around the heavens during balloon launch times.

Young and old sports fans will be able to meet MidFirst Credit Union representative, Dave Lapham, former Bengal football player and current TV sports commentator.

The 2004 Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival will be held at Smith Park, 500 Tytus Avenue in downtown Middletown. Take I-75, exit 32 and follow the signs to the site near Hook Field airport.  Besides the twice daily hot air balloon flights, weather permitting, the festival planners will also include arts and crafts, the best of local festival foods, sky divers, rugby games, and entertainment on the outdoor stage. Admission to the festival site is free. Parking is $5 per vehicle. Grounds are open for the early morning flights with limited morning food service and free parking. Festival hours, with vendors and entertainment, are Friday 4 to 10:30 pm, Saturday Noon to 10:30 pm and Sunday, Noon to 7 pm.