Smokey Bear hot air balloon at Traverse City Cherry Festival [Video]

TRAVERSE CITY (WWJ) — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is taking their messaging about forest fire prevention to new heights!

A giant Smokey Bear hot air balloon will be featured this week by the DNR at the National Cherry Festival in Traverse City.

Featuring Smokey’s famous face and ranger hat, the unique hot air balloon is set to be inflated each evening after 6 p.m. at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, according to a DNR press release.

Additionally, the iconic fire prevention figure will serve as parade marshal for the DTE Energy Foundation Cherry Royale Parade on Saturday, July 6.

“We’re excited to host the Smokey Bear balloon this year and give people a chance to enjoy this pop culture icon and learn more about preventing wildland fires,” said Paul Rogers, DNR fire prevention specialist.

Celebrating his 80th birthday this year, Smokey Bear was created in 1944 after the USDA Forest Service …