Balloonfest '86: Tragedy or Triumph?
1980s Now26 Nov 2025

Balloonfest '86: Tragedy or Triumph?

On Septempber 27, 1986, The United Way of Greater Cleveland held Balloonfest. The organizers' goal was to set a world record for the simultaneous release of small helium-filled balloons. They hoped the event would improve Cleveland’s image. On that afternoon, the skies above Public Square were filled with nearly 1.5 million balloons, which were inflated by a corps of volunteers. By some accounts, however, the event that was intended to raise the standing of the city, quickly turned into a disaster. This is the true tale of Balloonfest.

0:00 - Introduction

5:19 - WKRP's Turkeys Away

9:56 - Cleveland's Ballonfest 86

58:35 - Wrap Up and Thank You

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