JONESVILLE — Colorful orbs are expected to dot the sky this weekend in Jonesville as the Four Rivers Balloon Race looks to kick off its first year.

Downtown Jonesville will host a family friendly event to raise money for youth activities in the town and for women and children impacted by domestic violence.

“Just the balloons themselves, that is going to be awesome to see the hot-air balloons flying over,” said Terri Cotton, one of the nonprofit’s board members. “We will also have lots of great music and food, as well as a kiddy corner with pony rides, face painting, games and inflatables.

“There will be something for everyone.”

The gates open at 5 p.m. Friday, so that people can get in to visit with the 32 registered crafts and food vendors. The first event will be a community karaoke contest from 6 to 8 p.m., which is to be followed by the balloon glow at dusk.

After the balloon glow, Magnolia Bayou, a Gulfport blues band, will play until 10 p.m. when the gates close.

The gates open back up at 9 a.m. on Saturday, though Cotton said people wanting to watch the sky can see the 30 registered balloons lift off at 7:30 a.m., weather permitting.

“We have balloons coming in from all over the country, as far away as Illinois,” Cotton said. “We will have the POW/MIA balloon coming.”

Throughout the day two tethered balloon rides will be available for people to go up in the air.

Several bands will play throughout the day, starting at 1 p.m. when Everybody’s Brother, an old time rock and roll band, will perform. From 3 to 6 p.m., country group Big Jeff Nunnery Band featuring local backup vocalist and guitarist Seth Cotton, will play. Aaron Adair, who is from Monterey, will be playing guitar for the band.

At 6 p.m., the three finalists from the karaoke contest categories will compete for prizes.

Cuz & Company, an old time rock and roll/old country band will play to close out Saturday evening until 10.

Before close, a balloon ride will be raffled.

Gates open at 11 a.m. Sunday and close at 5 p.m. The afternoon, starting at 1, will be dedicated to gospel music, with several local area gospel singers performing.

Cotton encouraged everyone to bring blankets and lawn chairs.

The event is from the corner of First and Mount streets to the corner of First and Front streets.

Admission is $5 on Friday and Sunday. Saturday’s tickets are $8. Children 7 and under get in for free.

Weekend tickets are $15. Cotton said early tickets could be bought at Edwards Motel located at 1302 Fourth St. in Jonesville.

“We are crossing our fingers for good weather,” she said. “It looks like it is going to be a good weekend.”