Hot Air Fest over

The 2013 edition of the Van Wert Hot Air Festival got off the ground in style, unlike 2012’s festival, when inclement weather grounded balloons the entire weekend. Balloons launched on Friday and, in fewer numbers, later in the weekend, while there were also a number of activities and vendors on the ground at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds for people to enjoy. (photos by Dave Mosier and Russ LaBounty for the Van Wert independent)