Go-To Guide: Eyes to the Skies

It’s Eyes to the Skies time! The annual balloon festival kicked off Wednesday night with a carnival, which continues through Sunday. Tomorrow begins the festival, with food, fireworks and live entertainment.

All the information you need (and more) is available on the festival’s website.

They'll also be reporting via Twitter at @LisleEyesFest @brianstoiber and @drew3927. (Expect updates from @LislePatch reviewing the activities and carnival rides as well!)

Here’s a quick cheat sheet for admission and parking. (Hint: some of the activities are free of charge.) You can also check out our for food and family-friendly activities.

Admission (Festival and Carnival)

Adults: $5

Children 5 and under: free

The carnival is available for free for those who enter the grounds off Yackley Avenue (west side).

• Free entrance: Lisle residents may enter the festival grounds from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Sunday; active military members and veterans may also enter the grounds all day on Sunday. Valid photo ID is required.

Admission (Balloon Rides)

Balloon rides will be available after each launch, weather permitting, on a first come first serve basis. The tethered rides are $25 per person.

SEASPAR and the are offering free rides for those with physical and developmental disabilities on all three days of the festival. for more information.

Getting to the Festival

By Car
Due to the closing of the Short Street bridge on the east side of the park, motorists are encouraged to use Yackley Avenue.
and are designated for festival parking. Other nearby businesses may also be offering paid parking.

Price: $5/vehicle at Benet and Walker Athletics, which includes free shuttles to the grounds

• HANDICAP: a lot is available in lots along Short Street
• MOTORCYCLE: on-site parking for $10. Take Yackley Avenue to Ohio Street, turn east then  follow staff directions
• BICYCLE: bike racks are available at and the Lisle

Going by foot? A foot bridge off River Road, south of the parking lot and soccer fields, is designated for pedestrian traffic to the grounds.