9-4-26- Conner Prairie INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The sky above Fishers is about to get a whole lot more colorful. Conner Prairie’s Jupiter Flights Balloon Festival returns Sept. 11-13, bringing more than 45 hot air balloons to the skies above the historic living-history museum. The annual festival has become a popular fall tradition in central Indiana, drawing families for morning launches, evening balloon glows and other activities. “Jupiter Flights is one of Conner Prairie’s most colorful fall traditions,” said Hyacinth Rucker, senior manager of public relations and communications. “It’s a spectacular sight that brings families together year after year.” Morning launches begin at 7 a.m., with gates opening early for the flight competition. Evening sessions run from 5 to 10 p.m., when visitors can watch balloons light up against the sunset. Fall sweetness returns The fall fun extends beyond the balloons with the return of Conner Prairie’s Apple Store, which opened this week and will remain open through Halloween. Since 1985, Conner Prairie has hand-dipped about 17,000 apples each season using fresh fruit from Garwood Farms. “The Apple Store is a sweet tradition that keeps people coming back,” said Jeannette Paris, president of the Conner Prairie Alliance. “This year we’re featuring special 250th anniversary apples celebrating the nation’s birthday.” Visitors can also enjoy apple cider slushies and hot apple cider throughout the season. The Apple Store will have extended hours until 9 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays. What to know Jupiter Flights Balloon FestivalWhen: Sept. 11-13Where: Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Road, FishersMorning events: 7-9:30 a.m.Evening sessions: 5-10 p.m.Features: More than 45 hot air balloons, live entertainment and interactive activities Apple StoreWhen: Through HalloweenHours: Wednesday-Sunday, with extended hours until 9 p.m. Thursdays through SundaysFeatures: About 17,000 hand-dipped apples each season, apple cider slushies and hot apple cider The Headless Horseman event is also coming soon to Conner Prairie. Tickets and additional information are available at connerprairie.org. ...read more read less