Colorful hot air balloons brought countless smiles to countless faces over the weekend. Uintah County issued a press release on the event’s success emphasizing that the event offered economic benefits to the community. This was the 3rd annual Dinah “SOAR” Days and had 24 hot air balloons that flew over Vernal with pilots coming from all over the United States. “Many of the pilots commented on how welcoming the community of Vernal is to them and that was a determining factor in them choosing to fly in Vernal,” shares Uintah County. “The hot air balloons launched Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings from the Uintah Recreation Center. Spectators were able to enter the launch field for free each day. For many, this was their first time to experience the wonder and amazement that comes from being up close to these giant balloons.” The balloons were able to take to the sky each morning with Friday and Sunday’s winds taking the balloons south towards Ashley Heights and Sunburst Terrace and Saturday’s winds taking them towards Maeser. About 8,000 people attended the festival downtown on Friday night, 3,000 attended on Saturday night and over 800 people attended the balloon launch site each morning. It is estimated that tens of thousands of dollars were spent in Uintah County due to the festival. “Many of the downtown businesses experienced an influx of customers during the concert and candlesticking event,” shares Uintah County. “Business owners expressed their appreciation and excitement for having the festival downtown. Many felt that the festival had a positive impact on the economy and their business.” With the success of this year’s event, Uintah County has scheduled the next event for August 27th through the 29th, 2021. 
Photo credit: Dinah “Soar” Days Facebook Page
