30th Spiedie Fest and Balloon Rally Draws Huge Crowds

Organizers of the 30th annual Spiedie Fest and Balloon Rally at Otsiningo Park say everything this year is bigger and better, including a record number of vendors and crafters and large crowds.

The event started as a simple competition to see who could make the best version of the local delicacy of marinated meat, then grew into a larger festival before hot air balloons, classic cars and entertainment were added.

This year over 240 vendors signed on along with three dozen hot air balloons from all over the country.

The entertainment lineup included Classic Rock icons, Foghat along with appearances by Peyton Liss from Jessie, Codie Christian from Pretty Little Liars and Country Music Stars Cole Swindell and Kristian Bush of Sugarland.

Balloon launches generally take place around 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. daily, weather permitting.

Spiedie Fest is a non-profit fund-raising organization that has donated over $1 million to local charities over the years.