Being an adventurer these days isn’t easy. Aside from the trouble of explaining border crossings in a hot air balloon, what is left to explore? Those “race across the world in 80 days” times are behind us, so let’s settle for flying around Lake Lewisville in 8 minutes as you channel your inner Phileas Fogg at the 25th Annual Lion Balloon Festival and Fair. The weekend festival promises adventure for the whole family. There will be carnival rides for the kids, and tethered balloon rides and helicopter rides for those freewheeling types who insist on living along life’s delicate fringe. For those who would rather keep their feet on terra firma, the festival includes a classic car show on Saturday. It all goes up and down at Copperas Branch Park (948 B Highland Village Road) in Highland Village. Festivities run from Friday through Sunday morning. Admission is free, but parking is a suggested $5 donation. For more information, visit hvballoonfest.com.
Sun., Aug. 19, 8 a.m., 2012