Mass balloon launches at dawn and dusk bookend nine days filled with live music performances that range from Canadian folk group Cowboys Fringants to rapper T Pain, and family activities, including Balloon Planet, an inflatable amusement park.

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The family said Biggers "delighted in the enduring appeal of his 'Underdog' franchise, " including the balloon that appeared in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the 2007 live-action film.

WSJ: 'Underdog' cartoon co-creator dies at 85

Tens of thousands of people in the United States have jobs that may be affected by the balloon industry, including manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers.

CNN: Don't deflate the party