In August 1986, when 27 hot air balloons rose into the sky over Weiss Park in Canton, few could predict that this modest beginning would lay the foundation for one of Stark County's most vibrant traditions. Forty years later, the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival Balloon Classic, scheduled for July 25–27, 2025, is preparing to welcome over 130,000 visitors, offering a colorful spectacle that combines nostalgia, innovation, and community spirit.
Mori Sullivan, a licensed hot air balloon pilot since 1982, was the driving force behind this event. In 1985, when the Pro Football Hall of Fame Festival was already buzzing with activities, Sullivan saw an opportunity to add something new — accessible and free for everyone. "The festival had the Grand Parade, but other events, such as a fashion show or a banquet, were elitist, with tickets selling rapidly," recalls Sullivan, who will turn 79 in August. His vision was to make the celebration inclusive, and hot air balloons became the perfect solution.
The festival director, Janice Mayer, initially approached the idea skeptically. With a limited staff and a busy schedule, which in 1984 also included the Ribs Burnoff, she believed that yet another event would be a burden. "Convincing Janice was my greatest achievement," Sullivan laughs. "Her nervous facial twitch became legendary. I still marvel at how I managed to calm her down."
The first Balloon Fiesta in 1986 was a triumph. Colorful balloons swaying in the sky drew a crowd that joyfully watched this new spectacle. Since then, the event, renamed Balloon Classic, has become an integral part of the festival, moving in 1991 to the campuses of Kent State Stark and Stark State College in Jackson Township, where larger space allowed for expansion.
Forty Flights: What's New in 2025?
This year's Balloon Classic, sponsored by Aultman, promises to be spectacular. Over 40 hot air balloons will participate in five scheduled flights on July 25–27, weather permitting. Morning launches at 6:30 AM daily and evening shows at 6:00 PM on July 25 and 26 will create unforgettable sights. For those wanting to experience piloting, tethered balloon rides are available for $15 for children 6–12 and $25 for adults, with children under 5 flying free.
The highlight will be the Night Glow show on July 25 at 9:00 PM, when tethered balloons will light up using burners, resembling giant lanterns. For the second year in a row, a drone light show will take place at 9:45 PM on July 25 and 26, featuring 500 drones performing choreographed aerial displays. "It's like fireworks, but with 21st-century technological flair," says Bill Smith, Stark County Commissioner and long-time event participant.
The festival also offers the Up, Up & Away 5K run at 8:00 AM on July 26, a fireworks show at 10:00 PM that same evening, as well as food zones, craft vendors, and entertainment from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The music lineup includes performances by Q92 DJ Nikolina, Karissa Ella, and New Wave Nation. The new VIP event, Soaring Soiree, organized jointly with The Canton Culture Collective, will offer exclusive access to the field, unlimited food and drinks for $125 for adults and $50 for children.
Evolution of a Tradition
Balloon Classic has not always been so grand. In 1989, traffic jams caused by the influx of visitors to Weiss Park forced organizers to move the event to different weekends. "Honored guests couldn’t reach the Civic Center due to the congestion," Sullivan recalls. Moving to Jackson Township in 1991 allowed for more balloons — at its peak, there were 72 — and program expansion. In 1993, the Night Glow show debuted; in 1995, the Jackson-Belden Food Fest & Fireworks; and in 1997, Sullivan introduced team races for pilots.
Bill Smith, who earned his pilot license in 1988, describes Balloon Classic as unique. "It's like a stadium launch," he says, comparing it to other rallies across the USA. "No other event matches its organization and spectacle." Smith, now serving as a field announcer, along with Sullivan, remains the soul of the festival, though both have sold their balloons. This year, Smith’s son, Billy, will be among the pilots, continuing the family tradition.
A Legacy Rising Into the Sky
Balloon Classic is more than just a festival. It’s a story of how one person’s perseverance and community support can create something eternal. "We wanted to bring joy to people," says Sullivan, who will return this year as the competition judge chair. For Stark County, where football and hot air balloons have become symbols of unity, this event remains a beacon of community, attracting generations.
When the balloons ascend in July, they will remind us of Sullivan’s dream and how a bold step can change everything. For those eager to join, details are available at https://business.cantonchamber.org/event-calendar.
