July 5, 2010 in Blog by admin

Eyes to the Sky – Lisle, IL Festival

What a weekend for activities in Chicagoland!  The 4th of July weekend is almost history and like many of us I had to make some hard decisions.  Do I travel into Chicago for the Taste?  Head out to Naperville for Ribfest? or…head out to Lisle for their Eyes to the Sky Festival? 

Well due to the heat and the crowds I optedt to go to Lisle’s Ballon Fest.  Held  on Short St. off Rt. 53/Main Street the festival is known for the Hot Air Ballons that come across the country to show their colors and lift off at 5:30 a.m. every day weather permitting and again in the evening weather permitting.

Besides the balloons, there is a carnival, music and of course, food.  It was a perfect day to visit on Saturday.  We parked a few blocks at the local State Farm insurance parking lot – for only $4.  Walking along allowed us to see how the business’ along Rt. 53 were able to make some extra money allowing people going to the festival to park in their lots for various prices.  A great deal for everyone. 

The local Lisle police were directing traffic and made it easy for everyone to cross Rt. 53 safely.  Due to current economic conditions the entrance fee was lowered to $5 dollars which was an amazing value and much appreciated by everyone attending. 

Music was lively and crowds were gathered enjoying the various local bands that kept spirits up during the long afternoon.  I had waited to have a late lunch and found a great rib place from Naples, FL serving a 1/2 slab of baby back ribs and St. Louis ribs for only $9!  They were excellent and I highly recommend the ribs from Chew Bee Q.  I also had the kettle corn, italian ice (mango, lemon and rasberry) and a hochata (rice drink) and of course a lot of water.

After enjoying our late lunch under a nice shady tree and walking along the main vendors lane we ended up near the ballon launch area.  Due to the high winds they were not taking off but many did inflate and stay tethered so we were able to see the various styles.

I highly recommend that you take time next year to take in this one of a kind festival.  Well organized, family oriented and not as crowded as its neighbor – RibFest held in Naperville – Lisle has a lot to be proud of in keeping the tradition of “Eyes to the Sky” alive.