Thousands of people ventured to Wisconsin Rapids this weekend for the 8th Annual Children's Miracle Network Balloon Rally Fundraiser.

The event ran from Friday through Sunday, and featured hot air balloons, airplane rides, and live music all weekend.

Admission was free, but all proceeds from the raffles and food vendors went to benefit C.M.N., a national organization to help sick children.

And for all the volunteers at the event, that makes all the hard work worth it.

Brenda Haessig, a volunteer and committee member for the C.M.N. Balloon Rally says, "It's a lot of work, but seeing their faces, the kids you're helping, and the balloons and everyone out in the community having a great time, doing this for C.M.N. makes it all worthwhile."

Haessig says they won't know for a little while exactly how much money they raised this weekend, but they estimate around $20,000.