Nov. 12, 2025

Balloon Fest 1986

Balloon Fest 1986

Balloonfest '86 was a event in , , United States, held on September 27, 1986, in which the local chapter of set a by almost 1.5 million . The event was intended to be a harmless . However, the released balloons drifted back over the city and and...

Balloonfest '86 was a fundraising event in Cleveland, Ohio, United States, held on September 27, 1986, in which the local chapter of United Way set a world record by releasing almost 1.5 million balloons.[2] The event was intended to be a harmless publicity stunt. However, the released balloons drifted back over the city and Lake Erie and landed in the surrounding area, causing problems for traffic and a nearby airport. In consequence, the organizers faced lawsuits seeking millions of dollars in damages,[1] and cost overruns put the event at a net loss.[3]