Hot Air Balloon Festival Takes Flight Near Pass

CATHEDRAL CITY, CA — More than 35 hot air balloons will race across the skies of Cathedral City Friday, starting the weekend-long fourth annual Cathedral City Hot Air Balloon Festival.

The festivities began bright and early at Big League Dreams Sports Park, where the balloons were inflated on three ball fields before taking to the skies. Tickets for the 7 a.m. "Hot Air Balloon Breakfast & Race," which will also include tethered balloon rides, were $10.

The glow of the balloons will also greet guests Friday evening at the Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage as they dine at Pinzimini Restaurant. Ticketed guests can also enjoy the view at Master's Plaza on the 18th fairway of the Pete Dye Resort.

Through Sunday, the festival will also be rocking in downtown Cathedral City with live music, balloon and carnival rides, games, and more.

Tickets for all events are available at www.HotAirBalloonFest.com .

— By City News Service / Patch file photo by Renee Schiavone