When I got here over 4 years ago, the first "big" deal I got to be a part of was Spiedie Fest.

It was jaw dropping to see the thousands of people enjoying themselves at Otsiningo Park! And the balloon launches were beautiful. But you know what? I never knew how this great event came to be. And you may not know either.

Apparently, this all started back in 1983 after 2 families argued over who had the better Spiedie recipe. In 1984, after a successful Spiedie Cooking contest, the event expanded and Spiedie Fest was born in 1985.

Now, Spiedie Fest and Balloon Rally is a premiere event for balloonists. And over 100,000 people visit it. it all started because of a little argument! Who knew?

Sometimes people take something they've seen all their lives for granted, but for me and the hundreds of newer residents of the Southern Tier, this is something to learn about. Spiedie Fest is a huge part of our heritage.

Spiedie Fest opens at 3 pm on Friday and the first balloon launch is at 6:30 pm. then we take over with Foghat on the Stanley Law Stage at 7:30. Get the full weekend schedule here.

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