Photograph Courtesy of: Wiggins Photography, J Pamela Photography

Who would have thought that in just ten short years an idea to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the first manned flight in France would  have grown to become one of the largest balloon events in the United States ?

It was early in 1993 that  balloon pilot Steve Lombardi decided to organize a small rally in celebration of this historical event.  His flight of fancy: combine man’s first form of flight with today’s most technical form of flight, and hold this event at the NASA/Johnson Space Center. 

Needing seed money as well as support, Steve approached Richard Filip, CEO/Owner of RE/MAX of Texas. RE/MAX^® balloons, racecars and charity events routinely put the hot air balloon logo "Above the Crowd!^®"  Plus, the RE/MAX Balloon is one of the most recognized corporate symbols in the world.  Needless to say, Richard not only offered financial support, but also offered to dive in headfirst and help organize the event. Further, it was learned that a new visitor’s center at the Space Center was about to open, and they might be receptive to promoting their new facility.

In May of 1993, the first meeting was held between  Steve Lombardi, Richard Filip and the promotions and public relations department at Space Center Houston.  They elected to hold the First Annual Ballunar Liftoff  Festival during August.  And because of the support of RE/MAX of Texas , their local offices and sponsors, and of course NASA/Johnson Space Center, the first year was quite a success!

In 1994, the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce jumped in with their full support for the future, and skydiving and other aerial sport demonstrations were added.  The goal was unique: keep the crowds entertained all day, educate them about aviation and space exploration, and further promote the space program. 

Now, the RE/MAX Ballunar Liftoff Festival promotes itself on billboards, utilizes radio commercials, and advertises in several magazines and print publications. The Festival is additionally promoted via numerous corporate website links, as well as the official festival site, www.ballunarfestival.com.

What a show the RE/MAX Ballunar Liftoff Festival has become!  It’s hard to beat the flying at NASA/Johnson Space Center; the Clear Lake Area is beautiful, and the local communities, Houston, and all the sponsors solidly support the effort.  When drifting over the crowd and gazing below, the excitement viewed is as tangible as the smile on a youngster’s face.