Lisle's Eyes to the Skies carnival kicks off fest

Lisle's Eyes to the Skies festival officially opens Thursday, but those seeking to get an early start on the holiday weekend got a chance Wednesday evening to test out the carnival rides.

The first "wristband day" of the carnival, which continues through Sunday, July 5, allowed attendees unlimited rides until 11 p.m.

The main festival begins Thursday with the first hot-air balloons scheduled to launch at 5:30 a.m. and gates opening at 3 p.m. It runs through Saturday, ending with a July 4 fireworks extravaganza in Community Park near Route 53 and Short Street.

Eyes to the Skies Committee Chairman Mike Shuta said organizers have been working hard to make this year's Eyes the best it can be.

With two music stages, more than 100 craft booths, nightly fireworks shows and 20 to 25 hot-air balloons, he hopes they did just that.

"There really is something for everyone," Shuta said.

Admission is $8 and visitors are encouraged to use shuttle buses available throughout the village. For details, visit eyestotheskies.org.