Mother Nature may hold the key to the future for the Great Mississippi River Balloon Race.

But even if bad weather washes out balloon flights for next month’s race, we can determine to make this year’s event one that ensures the balloon race will see its 30th anniversary next year.

Organizers said this week, though they have funds in reserve to pay for this year’s race, good attendance this year is what will allow the event to continue on next year, which would be its 30th year.

The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race, when weather has allowed, has made for one of the biggest and best weekends of the year in Natchez. And the inclusion of the Vidalia riverfront in the balloon festival has opened up the event as a family-friendly good time for all.

The balloon race committee has increased sponsorship fees in hopes of raising more funds for future events and the committee has committed to reaching out to more local businesses and organizations to participate.

It’s a great event, great fun, and great for Natchez. Rain or shine, whether balloons make it up in the air or not, grab your umbrellas and rain boots and head to the Rosalie Bicentennial Gardens or the Vidalia Riverfront.

This year’s balloon race deserves our support.