I took this pic while in another balloon - sure looks like this balloon was landing on Interstate 5! The Del Mar racetrack is to the right of the freeway.

Just a few favorite balloon sites.......

This is the BIG Event and someday I hope to finally see it!

">All About Hot Air Ballooning

Hot Air Balloons USA

How I got "hooked"............it began in 1973 at the corner of Del Mar Heights and Mango Drive right off Interstate 5 in North County coastal San Diego.  At the time there was only a grocery store and a 7-11, the rest of the corner area was a field and the local balloons would take off from this site. I lived down the street and it was relaxing for me to go see them take off from there. Think of the traffic chaos when the balloons would fly over I-5 freeway!  So eventually the balloons would have to find other locations and that they did. I ended up crewing for 2 local companies and enjoyed this for 2 years. Del Mar area is unique as one is able to go up in the morning and evenings. Other areas deal with thermals in the evenings. I have been up 3 times in Del Mar during both times of day. Awesome view of the ocean and inland area. I have been up twice over Temecula over the vineyards only in the mornings.  Temecula has an annual balloon & wine fest since early 80's. Over the years it has become very commercialized and well known. To me it's the best in the west - but of course THE BEST would be the one in New Mexico that goes for 2 weeks in October. That is something I would love to see and I will someday!

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