Up, Up and Away! Lyman Orchards Opens Sunflower Maze (Photos & Video)

The fields at  added some color today to the spectacular landscape, while forging a new way to help raise money for the Connecticut Children’s Hospital.

Sunday morning a massive hot air balloon was on hand thanks to Remax. Many gathered around to watch the balloon come to life as it was blown up next to Lyman's sunflower maze.

According to John Lyman III, executive vice president of Lyman Orchards, all of the proceeds from the five-dollar hot air balloon rides benefit the children’s hospital. Since the sunflower maze opened four years ago, about $25,000 has been raised for the hospital.  

This is not the first time Lyman Orchards has come forward for a great cause. Many have visited the orchard during the early fall to get lost in the corn maze that helps raise money for The American Cancer Society.

Balloon Grounded on Saturday, But Not Sunday

People lined up early Sunday to get a glimpse of the aerial view of the sunflower maze. Lyman crossed his fingers hoping that that the wind would stay calm so as many could view the maze as had come to see it.

The tethered balloon, when fully extended, allows for a view of the butterfly design below. The design was chosen from various ideas submitted by children from the hospital. Brett Herbst, a world record maze designer, helped create the final lay out and design.

The maze is just coming into full bloom and the next weeks should provide some great opportunities to see the colorful flowers.

For many children, the balloon ride is a first experience in a hot air balloon while the adults enjoy the beautiful vistas of Middlefield from above.  

The maze will be open from 9 to 5 daily until August 28. Prices are $10 per person, $5 for kids 4-13, 3 and under are FREE. Come get lost in its beauty. 

Editor's Note: Hot air balloon rides were scheduled for opening weekend only.

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