PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — There is a new unofficial, official record in place for the most drag queens taking flight in hot air balloons at the same time.
The new record is 25 drag queens soaring over the skies of Newberg, riding in hot air balloons. Vista Balloons Adventures took the queens on a ride of a lifetime early Monday morning, August 24.
“I couldn’t be happier with the turnout, and I hope that if this is a huge success today, that we can continue doing it in the future, too,” said Kelly Dorius, Vista Balloon Adventures owner.
Guinness World Record was planned to be in the mix, but with the unofficial stamp of approval, it now has to be spread by word of mouth. The unofficial, official world record is now in place for these queens to brag about.
“We are going to set the world record as the unofficial, official world record for the most drag queens ascending in hot air balloons at the same time,” said local drag queen Poison Waters.
The morning started off early at 6 a.m. as the balloons took off just before 7 a.m. Many of the queens didn’t even go to bed after working a late night Sunday; others were preparing their looks hours before sunrise.
“I have never seen so many queens up so early before, but everyone is very chipper, very excited for the day. We’re just all dressed our best. I’m excited,” said local drag queen Nicole Onoscopi.
The calm winds and cooler morning temperatures made for beautiful views over the Willamette Valley.
“We like really calm winds when ballooning, and we’re very, very fortunate today with the weather. It’s incredibly calm,” said Dorius.
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