The sight of hot air balloons over Cathedral City this weekend is bound to cause motorists along Highway 111 to take notice, and city officials Tuesday warned people to plan alternate routes if they want to avoid associated traffic.
The Cathedral City Hot Air Balloon Festival is expected to bring heavy traffic to the area, particularly for events like the Balloon Glow, a musical lighting of balloons that’s scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. Saturday in the downtown area, city officials said.
February 14-15 First ever, Cathedral City Hot Air Balloon Festival. Adventures begin early on Valentines morning and include public balloon rides, After Dark Balloon Glow Saturday eve with 20 brightly colored balloons illuminated & Live Music, Sunset Wine Dinner & Balloon Glow includes a 4 course dinner with wine parings from Sonoma, Vintage VW Bus Show with owners competing for Best of Show. Fun will be had by all and makes the perfect romantic date for Valentines Day with your Sweetheart.
Simultaneously, a more family oriented, free event with six to 10 balloons would take place in the vacant lots behind the Mary Pickford Theatre, with gourmet food trucks, bouncy houses and merchandise booths, along with music and interaction with the balloon pilots. ‘Love is in the Air’ for Cathedral City. The event would wrap up Sunday with a pancake breakfast and more tethered rides offered until noon.