BOISE, Idaho — After initially announcing the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic will go on as scheduled, organizers announced Wednesday the 2020 event is canceled.
The 30th annual event was set for Sept. 2-6 at Ann Morrison Park.
"Unfortunately, we were informed we will not be allowed to move forward with the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic this year. Feedback from the community has been tremendously supportive - everyone was anxious to see hot air balloons over Labor Day weekend. It's been a long, tough year and people are ready for something fun that brings joy. We look forward to a new year where we are, hopefully, in a better place and can see you all for the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic 2021."
Organizers initially planned to go forward with the scheduled event, asking anyone planning on attending to not have traveled to a country designated by the CDC as a level two or higher, been on a cruise ship or spent significant time in any area identified as a containment zone or which travels restrictions have been implemented.
Along with asking people who have previously traveled in the 14 days before the event of come in contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19, the event also planned on taking the following precautions:
- Adopting a “no hand-shake policy” and practicing good hygiene
- Wiping down surfaces – with staff designated to be wiping down surfaces throughout the event with gloves
- Staff who are in close contact with guests will be wearing gloves
- Purell stations
- Promoting keeping a healthy distance with the recommend 6-8 feet
