The event kicked off with a festive parade through the streets of Joure. With the musical sounds of De Skomkoppen and accompanied by Friesian horses, the brightly colored procession of balloon cars arrived at the Nutsbaan.

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At the festival site, mayor Fred Veenstra of De Fryske Marren had the honor to officially open the event. Veenstra had words of praise for the organization and expressed the hope that it would cooperate again.

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Fortunately, on the first evening, the latter was the case. During the briefing, led by flight director Johannes Kooistra, it became clear that the wind would decrease sufficiently and that the balloons could take to the air.

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Pilot Ad Roza was allowed to kick off the spectacle in the PH APP. This was followed by 23 more balloons. Special Shapes such as Max the bear, Prince the frog and Mr. Globie made a big impression on the crowd.

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For true Friesland enthusiasts, the PH-JOU was the highlight of the day. The balloon with the characteristic pompoms of the Frisian flag took to the skies together with pilot Dinie Bosma. Special, because this balloon was already present in 1987, at the second edition of the Frisian Balloon Parties.

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With a nice show of miniature balloons, a very successful first balloon evening came to an end. Let us hope that line can be continued.

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