Giant Butterfly Balloon Inflating at Hot Air Festival
Saturday, July 18th, 2026 at 12:52:53 PM · 2026/Sonoma County Hot Air Balloon Classic
A dramatically large butterfly-shaped hot air balloon is being inflated horizontally on a grass field during the Sonoma County Hot Air Balloon Classic. A ground crew member in a dark jacket is visible in the foreground, holding a tether rope and leaning back with effort to help control the massive purple, red, and yellow patterned envelope as it fills with air. The balloon features a whimsical design with a green caterpillar-like head with yellow antennae, giving it a playful, cartoonish character. In the background, a RE/MAX branded traditional hot air balloon and at least one other colorful balloon are also being prepared, while a crowd of spectators watches from behind barriers. The overcast sky and green lawn setting suggest a cool morning at an outdoor balloon festival in Northern California.
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