Hudson Hot Air Affair announces its 2024 event theme of “Rockin’ with the Coldies” for the 35th annual celebration on Feb. 2-4. Known as the premier hot air balloon rally and winter festival in the Midwest, this family-friendly community event is presented by WESTconsin Credit Union and supported by hundreds of sponsors, partners and volunteers.

This year’s music theme will be observed throughout the Hot Air Affair weekend with the return of many of the popular outdoor events like the Torchlight Parade and fireworks, mass ascensions hot air balloon launch (weather permitting), and the popular Moon Glow/Field of Fire.

Several countdown events are planned in January to lead up to winter festival. They begin on Thursday, Jan. 11, from 7-11:30 p.m. with Rockin with the Coldies Launch Party at Ziggy’s in downtown Hudson. Join us for a free night of music, dancing, food and fun as we officially kick off the 2024 Hot Air Affair. Come early and enjoy spaghetti and meatballs special for just $15.

On Saturday, Jan. 20, from 9-11 a.m. at Dick’s Bar & Grill will host their annual Breakfast Crafts for Kids. Come have breakfast and see a hot air balloon basket—plus a free art event for the kids.

The YMCA Camp St. Croix will host a new family friendly event this year with a Rock ‘N Roll Dance on Thursday, Jan. 25, from 6-9 p.m. Bring the kids, the grandparents, and the neighbors to make tomorrow’s memories. Hand-packed burgers, hand-cut fries and other diner favorites available for purchase. Cash bar. Tickets required and available at www.ymcanorth.org/adventure/events/rock-n-roll-dance.

The Phipps Center for the Arts is offering a Backstage Escape Game. Your intrepid team of backstage crew members must crack the diamonds case and save the show. Check out the Phipps’ website at thephipps.org/events/escape for dates and times and to book your tickets.

The Hudson Lions Club is coordinating the Rockin’ with the Coldies Taste of Hot Air Affair at White Eagle Golf Club, on Saturday, Jan. 27, from 6-9:30 p.m. Enjoy spirits, wine, beer tastings and sweets, along with an Italian buffet meal (served from 6-7:30 p.m.) Live music by Jenny LeDoux, live auction, silent auction and wine-pull. Tickets are $50 per person. Tickets available at hudson-lions-club.square.site/shop/events/4

Audrey Martin will hold a Canvas Party Painting Class on Tuesday, Jan. 30 at 6 p.m. at Cracked Barrel Winery, featuring a painting of “Chilly Willy.” Details and registration at Audrey’s Canvas Parties.

Let the fun begin, as we usher in the 35th annual Hudson Hot Air Affair on Feb. 2-4, 2024. Find details about these countdown events and all the other Hot Air Affair events at HudsonHotAirAffair.com or visit us on Facebook or Instagram for the latest announcements and details.

Submitted by Hot Air Affair Committee