Wayland Balloonfest takes to the skies for mental health awareness

LEIGHTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — The fourth annual Wayland Balloonfest filled the morning skies over Allegan County with colorful hot air balloons Saturday.

The two-day festival, coordinated by nonprofit 4 One 2 Cares, raises money to support the group’s work in mental health awareness and suicide prevention.

To emphasize the message that one is not alone, the festival brought together unique hot air balloons and their 15 pilots. The festival also featured live music, a car show, a kids’ carnival and helicopter rides to Calkins Field.

While weather prevented the balloons from being displayed Friday night, pilots lined up for what is called a “candlestick.” That’s when the balloon’s burners are operated without the fabric, lighting up the night with the open flame.

New this year was the addition of a memorial walk Saturday morning. Organizers say 50 people joined the silent walk around the field in honor of those who lost their lives struggling with mental health issues.

The Wayland Balloonfest wraps up Saturday evening.

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