Rising to the Occasion: The RE/MAX Hot Air Balloon at Ramona Country Fair 2025
As twilight approached on Friday, Aug. 1, the Ramona Country Fair took a magical turn. The RE/MAX hot air balloon was anchored for an enchanting balloon view at sunset, stunning fairgoers as it illuminated the sky.
As the Ramona Country Fair kicked off on Friday, Aug. 1, the RE/MAX Night Glow became a shining centerpiece in the sky. The spectacle continued into Saturday morning when the RE/MAX balloon opened for free tethered rides from 7-10 am on Aug. 2 and 3. Jan Ryan invited the community to come early and help them set up and launch the balloon, which she says is even more fun than going up in it.
Eager fairgoers lined up at 211 Aqua Lane (in soccer field #2 adjacent to the fairgrounds) for a chance to ascend gently a few dozen feet above the fairgrounds, where they could take in the breathtaking views before the sun rose fully over Ramona’s rolling hills. Riders could go up in the balloon as many times as they wanted to; they just had to get back in line. The ride took about 5 minutes, and the balloon went up approximately 40 to 50 feet. There was no age limit for riders, and two to four people could go up at a time. Many riders brought their cameras to capture the incredible views, and every rider received a free t-shirt.
The unforgettable balloon ride tradition at the Ramona Country Fair was brought to life by RE/MAX Direct owners Jan Ryan and Jeff Gan, who started the business in 1996 and have been realtors for over 20 years. Ryan, Gan, and their agents are grateful to be able to continue to give back to the community that has supported them over the years.
“We started doing RE/MAX tethered balloon rides at the Ramona Air Fair over 10 years ago, and it was a huge success,” says Ryan. “We had a local TV weatherman go up in the balloon to give the TV weather report.” It is something fun, different, and memorable. Ryan adds, “RE/MAX Corporate sends their official RE/MAX balloon and pilot for this event, who does events all over the country.”
Lori Patenaude, a realtor with RE/MAX Direct, says that this event is unique and brings the community together. She went up in the balloon with her six-year-old daughter, Emma. “She has done it before and she loves it,” says Patenaude.
As the flame flickered and the balloon gently touched back to the ground, fairgoers left with more than just photos; they carried home a feeling of being lifted, even for a moment. Thanks to Ryan and Gan and their team of agents, what began as a thoughtful gesture has become a beloved tradition. It’s more than a ride; it’s a symbol of how community spirit can rise when people come together.
Photos by Tiffany Pressler.
