Michelle Heart Cam: Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic Kids’ Day [PHOTOS]

One of the most beloved end of summer events is back in Boise! The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic kicked off at Ann Morrison Park on Wednesday morning and continues all weekend. 

Day one of the Spirit of Boise is always one of my favorites.  Why? Because the pilots don't leave the park.  They keep their balloon on tether ropes that allow it to only ascend a few feet in the air, but still gives you a chance to experience what it's like to fly in a hot air balloon. Hundreds of kiddos and their parents came down to the park on CapEd Kids' Day to take advantage of the free tethered rides.

Speaking of CapEd, I had a chance to talk with them today about why they love to be part of kids day every year.  If you check out any of the balloon launches this year, you'll notice that CapEd has their own balloon.  That balloon doesn't just sit around for the 11 months before the Spirit of Boise.  It's part of CapEd's "Read to Rise" program that encourages elementary school kids to read during their summer vacation.  The top 5 participating schools who read the most of minutes between June 1st and August 25th will earn a visit a visit from the balloon at their school! The balloon's pilot and crew will bring the balloon to the school and give a full inflate demonstration and show students how the balloons are put together.

Here's some of the shots I took at Kids' Day this morning! Click through and see if you can spot the CapEd balloon!