Eat, drink & be merry: Celebrating California from high above

By REBECCA NIETO

Updated 8:02 PM PST, Tue, Jul 28, 2009

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Kick start your summer with a ride high, high above all your worries. Escape to the great blue skies of California aboard a hot air balloon.

The 26th annual Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival lifts off the weekend of June 5-7 in the heart of the Inland Empire's wine country.

For a fee, you can hop aboard one of the dozen hot air balloons and see the beauty of the wine country from a bird's point of view. Reservations are needed and can be made by calling 1-800-965-2122.

There is also a sunrise balloon launch Saturday and Sunday that begins at 6:30 a.m. and a balloon glow that happens just after sundown on Friday and Saturday (weather permitting).

If you are more into wine - then meet up with the 20 local wineries showcasing their award-winning blends. There will be dozens of decorated booths where you can get a tasting for a small price - just like what happens at the wineries. The winemakers will be on hand to answer questions you have about their newest and proudest creations.

And ever wonder which wine goes best with which food? Stop by the food demonstrations and pairings to straighten out the confusion. What you learn may make you the smartest...hippest person at the next cocktail party.

There are also nightly concerts - featuring artists like Sugar Ray, Starship, Survivor and Lonestar among others. You can also shop at the giant arts and crafts fair and take your children to the kids zone.

For more information visit the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival website. You will find information on tickets, directions, and festival tips. Plus you can call 951-676-6713 for more info too.