The Balloon Glow began celebrations on Friday, Sept. 20. Food trucks, activities, inflatables, and games kept visitors entertained until sunset, after which the Balloon Glow was planned to begin.

Simultaneously, all of the racers pulled their levers and ignited their balloon’s flame, casting a glow on the surrounding area. Despite the sweat that now poured down my face, it was an absolutely beautiful sight, not to mention it made for some professional-level photos. The rest of my time spent there involved simply conversing with some friends and observing the scene around me.

Now, all of the grass in the general vicinity of LouFest has been suitably trampled, students have successfully caught up on all the homework they put off and fabric wristbands everywhere, hanging by a thread, have finally fallen off—so you must be hankering for a new show to attend.

After spending the summer in cities like New York, London, Paris or LA, the flight back to St. Louis can feel like a one-way ticket to the boonies. But the truth is, fall is an incredible time to be in our fair city.