There I am in downtown San Jose, waiting for my little guy to board the Samba Balloon Ride, when I see this sign. Unbeknown to me, we were standing next to a little piece of pop culture history. I was also unknowingly blocking the sign from a lady trying to take a picture of it. Apparently, the historical significance of these spinning hot-air balloons didn’t escape her either.
The Balloon Samba is just one of the rides that were bought from Michael Jackson by Butler Amusements in 2008, and after being featured at the California State Fair this past summer, have been making their way across California. They are currently stationed outside the Fairmont Hotel in San Jose as part of Christmas in the Park.
I’m linking up this photo to Delicious Baby’s Photo Friday. Hopefully, that lady behind me wasn’t a travel blogger and going to post up this photo too.
kind of sad and strange thing. but the colors captured in the photo… beautiful.
It was a bit weird and sad. Like with everything Michael Jackson, I was standing there not knowing how to feel about it.
Like the color but not sure what to think about it either. It seems like we will see these kinds of stuff pop up for a while. They will be capitalized on his untimely death for years to come.
So weird. That ride is certainly a part of history. Great picture!
I guess the nice thing about it all is the fact that more kids will probably have a chance to enjoy the ride than if it was still at Neverland.
That’s a beautiful photo AND the story behind it is even better. I just wonder how old MJ was when he rode it?
Beautiful picture, you’ve captured the sense of movement beautifully, and as you say, however sad the events behind the story, a little piece of pop culture history!
That’s a beautiful picture! I love the story behind it too…a piece of pop history travelling across California. I think Michael Jackson would have liked that but I agree with Amy on the fact that they are capitalising on his death.
It’s a really striking photograph, with the colors and the light. I’m a believer in putting things to use, so if it’s enjoyable for kids, thumbs up.