Hot air balloon pilot Louis Merryman and his crew, Stairway to Heaven, have turned their ballooning hobby into something everyone can enjoy.

Along with five other balloon groups, Stairway to Heaven delighted a large crowd of people Thursday with the dazzling "Nite Glow" display at Scotland Meadows Park in New Castle.

The balloons were lit up like luminaries as one of the many events to take place during this weekend's fourth annual Western PA Balloon Quest. It's hosted by the Union Township Fire Department and sponsored by the New Honda City.

"Balloons come out and people get smiles on their faces," Merryman said. He also coordinated the ballooning festivities.

Merryman became interested in hot air balloons after riding in one for fun. He worked with the fire department and other local balloonists to create Balloon Quest. Stairway to Heaven, based in New Castle, includes his wife, Lynn, and their children Shane, 16, and Madison, 10.

The family often goes ballooning for joy-riding, even during the winter. The propane that keeps the balloon in flight keeps them warm. Madison is a junior pilot and has noticed people really enjoy the balloons.

"It's fun to watch. They're pretty," she said.

Besides Balloon Quest, Merryman attends other balloon rallies in New York and Meadville. He also does educational programs for schools and churches. His balloon has even been used for marriage proposals.

"The world of ballooning is great," he said. "We do it for the community."

Balloon Quest will feature 22 balloons, food, rides, games and music. Admission to the park is free, but donations for the fire department will be accepted. This year's theme is the "Wizard of Oz," with balloons in every color of the rainbow.

Merryman wants to remind guests that Federal Aviation Administration regulations prohibit people from entering the balloon field unless they have the proper certification or permission.

"Safety is No. 1 to us," he said.

The Balloon Quest will continue through Sunday evening. Events scheduled for today include: a Union Lions Club pancake breakfast at the fire hall from 7 to 10 a.m.; gates opening at noon for rides, crafts and food; Stat Medevac Medical Helicopter demo at 1 p.m.; tethered balloon rides from 3 to 5 p.m.; and hot air balloon launch from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Sunday's events include: hot air balloon launch from 6 to 7 a.m.; church services in the Meadows Washington Union Alliance Church at 9:30 a.m.; gates opening at noon; Life Flight medical helicopter at 1 p.m.; "Burn Outs" -- a car and cruise show from 1 to 6 p.m.; Tug of War between Tri-County football team and cheerleaders at 2 p.m.; D.J. Texas Tony from 3 to 6 p.m.; concert by Legacy at 6 p.m.; Bingo in the Meadows from 6 to 10 p.m.; and fireworks by Pyrotecnico at 10 p.m.

All ballooning events are weather permitting.