Frequently Asked Questions
 

1. How many balloons will be used to create BalloonTown USA?

In 2005, over 31,000 balloons were used the create "Balloon Lagoon". This year, current designs include using approximately 50,000 balloons. The exact count will not be determined until after "Farmer Floyd's a-Floatin' Farm" is actually built.

2. How many people does it take to create such a project?

In 2005, a national team of 12 balloon professionals, both decorators and entertainers, built "Balloon Lagoon". In addition, over a dozen local volunteers chipped in over the course of the two weeks to help bring BalloonTown to life.
 
With "Farmer Floyd", our team of professionals is expected to reach over 25. We also have our first ever international volunteer scheduled to work with us, an extremely talented balloon entertainer from the Netherlands.

3. How long does it take to build BalloonTown USA?

Construction and inflation actually begins two weeks prior to the event, but due to scheduling restrictions, on-site construction can not begin until two days before the project is unveiled to the public. Some team members work for two straight days and nights to put the finishing touches on BalloonTown USA.

4. Is this the only balloon event like this in the country?

Actually, no. Around the time BalloonTown USA was created in 2004, another balloon artist, Larry Moss, developed a similar project called Balloon Manor. His event, hosted in New York State, attracts dozens of "twisters" from around the country who come together to build a spooky Halloween themed exhibit. You can check out their efforts at their event website at www.balloonfunhouse.com. The next installation of Balloon Manor is scheduled for October 2006.

Since the creation of BalloonTown and Balloon Manor, others around the country have been inspired to create their own balloon exhibits as well and smaller displays have popped up in other cities. Proudly, BalloonTown USA is the largest such annual independent balloon exhibit in the United States.

5. How will I be helping my community by attending BalloonTown USA?

The beauty of BalloonTown USA is that you'll be helping your neighbors and friends just by attending! Proceeds from the admission charge go to benefit our non-profit partners, and you get to choose which of those partners your money goes to.

In addition, by "adopting" one of our pig sculptures during the event, you're also helping the cause. Proceeds from the sales of "our "little piggies" will be evenly divided up amongst all of our non-profit partners.

6. Are there other ways I can help?

Absolutely! Aside from just attending BalloonTown USA, you can actually volunteer on the construction crew. General inflation begins on October 16, 2006, and volunteers are welcome at any time between the 16th and the actual event itself.
 
If you would like to be involved as a volunteer on BalloonTown USA, visit our Volunteer Info page.

7. What's new in 2006 for BalloonTown USA?

After the success of last year's project, we have decided to expand the children's after party. This year's "Pig Pen Playground" will feature more stuff for your little "piggies" to do. In addition, many of our popular features from last year will be back again, including our scavenger hunt.

8. Where can I learn more about the world of balloons and balloon decorating?

There is a wonderful website for both balloon professionals and hobbyists at www.balloonhq.com. There you will find the world's largest data base of balloon photos featuring work from artists from around the globe. Balloon Manor's creator, Larry Moss, created and developed the site for entertainers as well as decorators, and it has grown into an award winning, industry leading collaboration for those who love balloons.