By Michael D. Clark
The Cincinnati Enquirer

MIDDLETOWN - It will be an aerial assault that will be welcomed as 30 of the country's top hot-air balloonists fly in and around this city during the upcoming Ohio Challenge celebration.

The Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival is expected to draw thousands of fans and the curious Friday through Sunday - just as the popular event did in the early 1990s, when Middletown was the host for the national competitive event.

"We're very honored and happy that Middletown was chosen again to hold the event," said Mayor David Schiavone. The three-day festival, besides the balloons, will feature live music, food, children's activities, carnival rides and crafts.

"It's amazing to see the number of balloons and all their colors. People follow them throughout the city, and the kids really take to it," said Schiavone.

David Pearce, president of the Middletown Convention and Visitors Bureau, said that booking the event after nearly a decade was an easy decision.

"The reason we brought the balloons back to Middletown is simply because they are fun," said Pearce, who also is chairman of the Ohio Challenge executive committee. "The Middletown community loves the balloons."

And, "we've received tremendous business support for this event," he said.

"In fact we have more sponsors for the balloons than we do balloons. We're really excited about them coming here, and it certainly improves the image of Middletown."

If you go

What: The Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival, Friday-Sunday in Middletown, features some of America's best hot air balloon pilots as they compete for points toward national standings.

Where: Middletown's downtown Smith Park, near Hook Field Municipal Airport, will be the site, weather permitting, for mass balloon launches and landings during the three-day festival that usually draws thousands.

Activities: Besides the balloons, the festival features craft shows, live music, food booths, radio-controlled model plane competition, a dog agility team and children's activities.

Cost: Entry to launch and festival site is free, but there's a $5 fee for nearby and on-site parking.

Directions: From Cincinnati, take Interstate 75 north to Ohio 122 (Exit 32) and follow signs to downtown Middletown.

Information: Go online or call (513) 422-4551.

E-mail mclark@enquirer.com