Floating over Flag City

FINDLAY — For the largest balloon festival in Ohio, The Courier staff saw the City of Findlay from a whole new perspective - thousands of feet in the air. The 2025 Flag City Balloon Fest lifted off early Friday morning with 15 balloons participating in the first flights for media, community members and local leaders. At 7 a.m. sharp, Courier reporters Elizabeth Clauss and Saige Thornely climbed into their respective baskets and took off from Emory Adams Park. Clauss rode in the Dark Star balloon piloted by Joe Clark, while Thornley flew in the 36-24-36 balloon with pilot Jonathon Hodge. The one-hour float took place during perfect conditions with calm winds, clear skies and sprawling views of the city. The balloons floated past landmarks such as Eagle Creek Park, the former Findlay Mall, Van Buren State Park, and Blanchard River, and the Findlay County Club. Back on solid ground, Thornley's balloon landed in a corn field within Findlay, while Clauss's balloon touched down in a residents backyard just past Van Buren. This year marks the 25th anniversary of Flag City Balloon Fest, with 42 balloons participating. Events will continue through the weekend at Emory Adams Park, including food vendors, petting zoos, a glow encounter experience, helicopter rides, live entertainment, fireworks, and of course - balloon flights. For hot air balloon enthusiasts or those looking to conquer their fear of heights, SkyCab Balloons will offer rides throughout the weekend for a fee. More information about the balloons participating in the fest and the schedule of events can be found at flagcityballoonfest.com.