New Handicapped-Accessible Hot Air Balloon Takes Flight Over Temecula

TEMECULA, CA — A new handicapped-accessible hot air balloon will take flight over Lake Skinner next month during the three-day Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival, according to organizers.

The new balloon, referred to as Pala Spirit, is a 120,000-cubic-foot balloon featuring the Pala Casino logo. It features a six-person custom-made basket with a viewing window and chair for any person who cannot stand for the duration of a balloon flight.

Reach For The Stars Hot Air Balloon Foundation is a nonprofit that works to ensure hot air ballooning is accessible to people of all abilities. The foundation had one hot air balloon to accommodate a wheelchair, walker and people with special needs. Last week, however, it was announced that Pala Casino had donated funds to Reach for the Stars for the new Pala Spirit balloon that has already been spotted over Temecula Valley.

Pala Spirit will be among nearly 30 hot air balloons participating in the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival scheduled May 19-21 at Lake Skinner Regional Park/Recreation Area, 37701 Warren Road, in Winchester. This year's event marks the festival's 40th anniversary.

In addition to hot air balloon rides, the festival features wine, beer and food, along with live musical performances. Headlining the Pala Casino Main Stage on Friday, May 19, will be multi-platinum American rock band REO Speedwagon along with Night Ranger, and John Waite. On the Wine Stage, Colt Ford, Moonshine Bandits, and Kanan Road Band will perform.

On Saturday, May 20, headlining the Pala Casino Main Stage will be Grammy-award-winning country superstar Brad Paisley along with Sara Evans, Tenille Arts and Brandon Calhoon. The Wine Stage will feature The Lacs, George Shingleton, Twisted Gypsy, Parade Wave, Pulp Vixen, and Billy Williams.

Headlining the Pala Casino Main Stage on Sunday, May 21, will be 2011 American Idol winner and award-winning country music artist Scotty McCreery, as well as Dylan Scott, Callista Clark and Brandon Calhoon. Featured on the Wine Stage will be The English Beat, Daring Greatly, Cassie B, and Billy Williams.

All concerts are included with festival admission; lineups are subject to change. To purchase two-day country combo tickets, VIP packages, single-day tickets, three-day packages, parking passes, beverage tickets and to book hot air balloon rides, visit www.tvbwf.com.