Posters are up, flyers are out and volunteers are selling T-shirts. “We’re busy putting the last pieces together of this giant logistical puzzle,” said Pirjo Restina, chair of the Citizens Bank and Trust 42nd annual Lake Wales Art Show, ready to lift off with its hot air balloon theme, “Up, Up and Away,” on March 23-24 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. “With some of the greatest artists in the Southeast competing for more than $30,000 in cash prizes, this year’s show is sure to be a masterpiece!”

As many as 30,000 art lovers have attended in past years, and Restina predicts attendance could break all previous records. “Free admission, free parking and our scenic location along the shores of Lake Wailes have always been a draw, but this year we’ve added a grand prize package giveaway of a hot air balloon flight for two donated by Balloons and Beyond with overnight accommodations and breakfast at Chalet Suzanne Restaurant and Country Inn.”