Balloons return to annual air show this weekend

Hot air balloons, radio controlled planes and vintage cars will be featured at the annual Valley View Concert and Air Show Saturday, Aug. 8.

The free event runs all day at Valley View Retirement Village, 15600 S.W. Rock of Ages Road just southwest of McMinnville. It’s open to the public.

Hot air balloons will rise at daybreak, then take off for a flight to wherever the wind takes them. Starting at 9 a.m., there will be McMinnville Aircraft Modelers RC plane flights and demonstrations, and the McMinnville Auto Club car show. A horse and wagon will give rides.

For children, there will be games and activities such as a huge waterslide and bouncy house. At 11 a.m., a “candy bomber” will drop treats for the crowd.

In addition, the day will feature music by both local and regional performers. The Second Winds Community Band will play at 11:30 a.m., followed at 3 p.m. by The Humlies. Gospel Echoes Northwest will take the stage at 4 o’clock, with the Nissley Family at 5:30 p.m., Bethel Mountain Band at 6:30 and the Knox Brothers at 7:30.

Food will be for sale throughout the day. Breakfast will be served starting at 8 a.m., lunch at midday and dinner from 4 to 8 p.m. Snacks and cold drinks also will be available for purchase.

Other than the food, the event is free, donations of canned food for local food banks will be accepted.

For more information, call Valley View, at 503-472-6212 or 503-550-4750, or check the website, rockofagesvalleyview.com.