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SUSSEX - Thirty hot air balloons will rule the skies over Sussex this week as the Atlantic International Balloon Fiesta (www.atlanticballoonfiesta.ca) takes over Dairytown.

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This time-honoured tradition, now in its 23rd year, brings thousands of people to Sussex on the weekend after Labour Day to watch the twice-daily flights.

Highlighting this year's fiesta are two shape balloons, Mr. Peanut and Jumpin' Jack.

Mr. Peanut, which stands 138 feet tall and 45 wide, makes his return after wow-ing onlookers at last year's event. Jumpin' Jack, meanwhile, will make his AIBF debut and is piloted by fiesta veteran Joel Jones, a resident of Seale, Alabama.

And while balloons are easily the stars of the show year after year, those organizing the wildly-popular event have ensured that the AIBF has a little something for everyone.

A craft fair with more than 70 vendors, an outdoor bandstand, an antique car show and shine with more than 500 vehicles, a sparade (spray-parade) and amusement park rides are just a few of the other activities to take in.

The Kings County Record features a special section inside this week's edition with photos of past fiestas, information so balloon-watchers can make the most of their time and much more.

And if the AIBF is in your plans this year, which it should be, don't forget your camera.