May 8, 2008  

Energizer Bunny on board for annual Pellissippi State balloon festival

The Energizer Bunny and the Hot Hare Balloon Team are scheduled to touch down at the Fifth Annual Pellissippi State Hot Air Balloon Festival.

The balloon festival, Pellissippi State Technical Community College’s largest fundraising event, is Friday, Sept. 26, and Saturday, Sept. 27, 4-10 p.m. It happens on the Pellissippi Campus on Hardin Valley Road in Knoxville, Tenn.

The Energizer Bunny Hot Hare Balloon is the world’s largest hot air balloon. Its total height—counting the 60-foot-long ears—is 166 feet. That’s 15 feet taller than the Statue of Liberty. The balloon weighs in at 1,170 pounds, took 84 miles of thread to create and “wears” size 98 EEEE shoes.

“Hosting the Energizer Bunny is a special touch to an already fun festival,” said Allen Edwards, Pellissippi State president. “This is an event that appeals to families, and the children, in particular, are going to enjoy seeing the Energizer Bunny.”

In addition to the Energizer Bunny, the festival will feature an array of multicolored balloons that light up the sky at the popular “balloon glow.” That presentation takes place around the pond at dusk (weather permitting).

“We’ve added a second glow for Saturday this year because it is such a spectacular display of beautiful balloons, lighting and music,” said Pat Myers, director of Alumni Relations and Foundation events. “Our pilots come from all over the country, and they want to entertain as many people as possible with their unique skills and showmanship while they’re in town.”

Approximately two dozen balloons are anticipated for the end-of-summer celebration, which continues to be a top attraction for people of all ages in Knoxville and beyond. 

Entertainment, children’s activities, food, arts and crafts vendors and tethered-balloon rides are also planned.

All proceeds from the event support student enrichment opportunities through the Foundation.

Visit the balloon festival Web site, www.pstcc.edu/balloon, as details of the event unfold.

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