The National WWI Museum and Memorial is set to host the annual Great Balloon and Puppet Glow event on August 19, in celebration of National Aviation Day. This free event will showcase a stunning display of tethered hot-air balloons that will illuminate the Kansas City sky. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy live music, indulge in delicious food from local food trucks, and have a picnic on the Museum and Memorial grounds starting at 4 p.m. As the sun sets, the North Lawn and the South side of the Museum and Memorial will come alive with a dazzling array of colorful hot-air balloons and illuminated puppets, aerialists, and glow performers. Join in on this magical experience and take a walk-through journey “around the world in 80 days” from 5-10 p.m. Discover the unique history of hot-air balloons and their significance during World War I. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening of entertainment and wonderment.
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Event Overview
The National WWI Museum and Memorial, in collaboration with StoneLion Puppet Theater, will be hosting the annual Kansas City’s Great Balloon and Puppet Glow 2023 to commemorate National Aviation Day on August 19. This highly anticipated event will showcase a stunning display of tethered hot-air balloons illuminating the Kansas City sky.
Date and Location
The event will take place on August 19 at the grounds of the National WWI Museum and Memorial. Located in Kansas City, the museum serves as the perfect backdrop for this mesmerizing event.
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Activities and Attractions
Starting at 4 p.m., the public is invited to gather on the Museum and Memorial grounds to enjoy live music, indulge in delicious food from various local food trucks, and have a delightful picnic. There will be a wide range of activities and attractions to keep attendees entertained throughout the event.
Schedule
Start Time
The event will officially kick off at 4 p.m., providing ample time for attendees to explore and enjoy the various offerings.
Live Music
Live music performances will set the ambiance and add to the festive atmosphere of the event. A diverse range of musical acts is scheduled to perform, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Food Trucks
Dozens of local food trucks will be stationed at the event, offering a delectable array of culinary delights. Attendees can sample a variety of cuisines and flavors as they satisfy their taste buds.
Picnic
Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and picnic baskets to make the most of the event. The spacious grounds of the Museum and Memorial provide the perfect setting for a relaxing and enjoyable picnic experience.
Balloon and Puppet Glow
Tethered Hot-Air Balloons
As the sun sets, the night sky will come alive with a stunning display of tethered hot-air balloons. These vibrant balloons will be positioned on the North Lawn and the South side of the Museum and Memorial. By firing up their burners, the balloons will create a breathtaking canvas of color against the Kansas City skyline.
Location and Timing
The tethered hot-air balloons will be visible on both the North Lawn and the South side of the Museum and Memorial. The illuminated display is scheduled to take place from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., offering attendees ample time to marvel at the beauty of the balloons.
Illuminated Puppets
Adding an enchanting touch to the event, illuminated puppets will be featured on the South side of the Museum and Memorial. Guests can embark on a mesmerizing walk-through journey called “Around the World in 80 Days.” These illuminated puppets, along with aerialists and glow performers, will captivate and delight attendees of all ages.
Aerialists and Glow Performers
Accompanying the illuminated puppets will be talented aerialists and glow performers. These skilled artists will showcase their awe-inspiring talents, further enhancing the magical atmosphere of the event.
History of Hot-Air Balloons
Hot-air balloons, although primarily associated with recreational activities, have a rich history dating back to World War I. Understanding this history adds depth to the appreciation of hot-air balloons showcased during the event.
Role in World War I
During World War I, hot-air balloons played a significant role in aerial warfare. While they were not ideal for surveillance due to their inability to be easily controlled, they were widely used for propaganda purposes. Balloons were deployed by the Allies to scatter leaflets over enemy lines, spreading messages and influencing public opinion.
Free Balloons
Free balloons, as the name suggests, were untethered and moved with the wind. They were not reliable for surveillance purposes but were effective for disseminating propaganda. The Allies utilized free balloons to drop leaflets over enemy lines, specifically in Verdun and along the St. Mihiel Salient.
Captive Balloons
Captive balloons were tethered to the ground and provided valuable information on enemy positions and activities. They operated similarly to kites, with a cable attached to a winch. The operator on the ground controlled the direction of the balloon by adjusting the tension on the cable. Captive balloons were equipped with observers who could spot enemy planes, infantry, and artillery fire. These observations were crucial for planning and strategizing in warfare.
Dirigibles and Zeppelins
Dirigibles, commonly known as airships, were powered by engines and had propellers for steering. They were larger and more sophisticated than traditional balloons. Dirigibles were employed for reconnaissance missions, as their slow speed allowed them to hover over specific areas for an extended period, capturing detailed information and documenting the landscape. However, their size made them vulnerable to attacks from enemy aircraft.
American Balloon Companies in World War I
The United States had 35 balloon companies stationed in France during World War I. These companies flew a total of 5,866 times, accumulating 6,832 hours in the air. Unfortunately, the balloons were not immune to attacks, with 89 instances of enemy aggression. Of the 116 parachute jumps made from balloons, all parachutes, made of silk, successfully deployed, except for one incident resulting in the loss of an observer’s life. The reconnaissance efforts of these balloon companies were invaluable, providing critical information on enemy planes, infantry movements, and artillery fire.
Stats and Figures
The American balloon companies made a significant impact during the war. Their extensive flying hours and observations contributed greatly to the Allies’ efforts. The dedication and bravery of the balloon observers cannot be overstated.
Attacks and Losses
While performing their vital reconnaissance duties, the balloon companies faced numerous attacks from enemy forces. These encounters resulted in the loss of several balloons, both due to enemy fire and accidents. The resilience of the balloon companies in the face of adversity was admirable.
Parachute Jumps
Parachute jumps from balloons were not without risks, but the successful deployment of silk parachutes saved the lives of many observers. However, there was one unfortunate incident where a descending parachute was hit by pieces of a burning balloon, leading to a tragic loss.
About The National WWI Museum and Memorial
The National WWI Museum and Memorial stands as a prominent institution dedicated to preserving the memory of World War I and its significance in shaping the world. It serves as a place of remembrance, interpretation, and understanding of the Great War and its lasting impact on the global community. By hosting events such as the Great Balloon and Puppet Glow, the museum continues its mission of educating and engaging the public in the history of World War I.
In summary, the Great Balloon and Puppet Glow is a highly anticipated event that allows attendees to experience the beauty and history of hot-air balloons. From the vibrant display of tethered balloons to the enchanting journey of illuminated puppets, the event offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience. Additionally, the event provides an opportunity to reflect on the significant role hot-air balloons played in World War I. The National WWI Museum and Memorial is proud to host this event and continue its mission of honoring and remembering the past.