Thurston Classic 2024 in Pennsylvania

Every June, Meadville, Pennsylvania hosts the Thurston Classic Hot Air Balloon Event, open to the public. The festival takes place at Robertson Athletic Complex on 204 Park Avenue–a non-smoking location, which offers just enough space for all the balloon fun. Now, let's get into the details!

Program

The festival doesn't provide an option for rides, but the visitors can enjoy an incredible spectacle of balloons filling the skies over Meadville. Hot air balloons take off at approximately 7 am. Plus, there are evening events planned at 6 pm and a night glow scheduled at 9 pm. For example, Ted Watts' Tribute Sponsors Flight will run on Jun 14 at 6 pm, and Sanctioned Race #2 will take place on Jun 15 at 7 pm. We recommend coming early to get the best spots with great views. Also, there's no seating, so bring your chairs or blankets to enjoy the festival events.

History of the Thurston Classic

The Thurston Classic ballooning event got its name from the local Thurston family, who learned and practiced the sport back in the 19th century. Samuel Sylvester Thurston was the first to introduce the activity to Meadville. Despite the townspeople's skepticism, Samuel bought his first balloon in 1860. Besides ballooning for his amusement, he offered free rides to the community at fairs and 4th of July celebrations. Later on, Samuel's son, Alic Thurston, continued the tradition.

Lastly, in 1988, a group of volunteers founded the Meadville Bicentennial celebration to honor the daring feats of the Thurstons. In cooperation with Ted Watts, Joyce Stevens did a great job organizing the festival. This is how the Thurston Classic was born.