Have you ever ridden an air balloon? Even if you haven’t, you would know that there’s something magical, majestic, and inspiring about it.
These giant-sized balloons are a fantasy that people have brought to life. Just like our imaginations, they float up and up, taking us into a different realm of weightlessness.
It is no surprise that countries in various parts of the world organize hot-air balloon festivals.
These festivals show off the beauty of these balloons and mark special occasions. If you get the chance to go for a ride, you’ll have a better appreciation for the earth’s beauty.
Not only that, but it evokes a sense of wonder and youthful exuberance.
So, if you are planning to experience one of these events, here is a list of the best hot-air balloon festivals in the world.
1. International Hot Air Balloon Festival of chateau-d’oex
This balloon festival runs for eight to nine days in late January and brings together hundreds of people from over twenty countries. It is celebrated in Switzerland, a spot known for its history.
In 1999, two men, Bertrand Picard and Jones Brian, decided to travel around the world in a hot air balloon.
The Swiss Alps were their starting point. At the festival, expect to see so many exciting and new things.
Watch as people compete for the best balloon pilot, take exciting pictures, and don’t forget to hop on a balloon at every chance.
2. Canberra Balloon Spectacular
Held in Canberra, Australia, the festival takes place on the second Monday in March.
The two-week celebration features many beautiful activities that will keep you wanting more.
First, the event always starts on the lawn of the old Canberra Parliament House.
The house provides a fantastic view of a sparkling lake and a lush forest.
If you plan to go on a ride, you must book a flight. Aside from this, you must be up early as the balloons take off into the sky just after sunrise.
Each ride lasts for up to sixty minutes. Imagine sixty minutes of viewing the world from above, the sights of the hills and the meadows.
Upon landing, you can treat yourself to a delicious breakfast prepared by a fantastic chef. If you skip the ride, you can spectate from Lake Griffin.
The lake provides a splendid view of the balloons rising into the sky.
3. Taiwan International Balloon Festival
Every summer, tourists visit Taitung to witness the Taiwan International Hot Air Balloon Festival. It runs for a whole month, and it never gets boring.
It is known for its beautiful, unique, and cute character-like balloons. These balloons make the perfect picture background and the best vacation ground for couples with children.
If you plan to ride a hot air balloon, you must book your flights months ahead. The only other alternative is to book a tethered balloon ride.
In this ride, the balloon only ascends to an extent because it is roped to the ground.
However, children under the age of ten are not allowed on this kind of ride.
Still, if you do not get an opportunity to get a ride, watching these balloons take off is also worth the travel.
4. European Balloon Festival
The European Balloon Festival is the biggest in Spain, and it occurs during the first two weeks of July.
The Spanish balloon festival features a 4-day run from Thursday to Sunday, and it attracts about 20,000 visitors every year.
While the celebration is on, expect to see many exciting things besides breathtaking balloons.
The other activities include a family workshop, a children’s show, games, and concerts.
If you love photography, this festival is a beautiful spot to take breathtaking pictures. There is also a contest for the photographer with the best photos.
The winner is entitled to a trophy and a 500-euro sign. Of course, there is the balloon ride, which you need to book ahead.
In addition, you can watch as pilots from several parts of the world compete for the winning spot in a flying contest.
5. Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
This hot-air balloon fiesta is a sizable, family-oriented balloon event that runs for three days every August in Europe.
Here, many activities can keep you and your family entertained, and even better, the entrance is free.
You can get yummy snacks from fruit outlets, ride the carousel, and let your children enjoy other games.
You can hop on a hot air balloon and view the fantastic cityscape below.
Even more exciting are the Nightglows and fireworks, where a train of balloons takes off into the golden sky.
To make the experience even more euphoric, you get to hear a soundtrack that matches the event.
6. International Balloon Festival of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu
Held every August, this balloon festival is the biggest in Canada. There are so many exciting and fun-filled activities that you can get busy with for the nine days of the festival.
First, you can book a flight to witness the breathtaking cityscape of Quebec. There are games and concerts to look forward to at the lower ground.
It is also the best place for families with children. In addition to inflatables and ziplines, there are hot-air balloon games designed for younger ones.
You also get the opportunity to learn how to fly a balloon and take part in demonstrations and programs.
You can also interest yourself in watching character-like balloons as they float up to the sky.
Don’t miss the night glows where hot air balloons look like lanterns on the ground.
7. The Great Reno Balloon Race
Nevada has never been a better place to visit in September. During this time, one of the world’s largest hot-air balloon festivals takes place for free!
You enjoy the unlimited view of balloons flying up in the sky for four days.
Every year, more than a hundred of them are launched into the atmosphere.
This event has gotten so many awards and commendations.
Family-friendly, there are many programs to keep you and your loved ones occupied.
These programs mainly include scavenger hunts, parties, and competitions.
If you are an addicted shopper, you can take the opportunity to shop in stores.
Do not forget to bring your camera along, as there are so many beautiful scenes to capture.
In addition, there are photo contests where the photographer with the best photos wins several gifts.
8. Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off
Another free hot air balloon festival is The Colorado Springs Labor Day Liftoff. One of the best traditions in Colorado, this event entertains the young and old alike.
You get a chance to set up your private station where you can comfortably enjoy the view.
Wake up in the morning to the sight of over seventy balloons ascending. If you want to be part of the flight, wake up a little earlier.
This gives you the opportunity to catch a view of Pikes Peak, the best view in Colorado.
There are also other activities to enjoy. They include skydiving, paddle boarding, and eating competitions.
9. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Held every October, the Albuquerque Fiesta event is one of the biggest balloon festivals in the world.
It started as a small festival in 1972, when only thirteen hot air balloons took off from the ground. Today, over five hundred multi-colored balloons are seen each year.
For nine days, you enjoy the complete view of various balloons that keep you spellbound.
Other exciting events, such as the Flight of the Nations Ascension, are within this unique event.
Here, pilots launch their balloons while we hear their national anthem, and they wave their flags proudly.
10. Saga International Balloon Fiesta
If you are considering going to Japan in early November, you should not miss the Saga International balloon fiesta.
There, thousands of people gather by the river to watch hundreds of hot air balloons touchdown.
Since it started in 1978, it has been celebrated every year with people gathering from different parts of the world.
What makes this event unique is the “La Montgolfier nocturne,” which translates to ” The Night Balloon.”
This nocturnal event features the brilliant colors of hot air balloons that light up the ground and sky. Fireworks and music also contribute to making this event memorable.
You can set up a picnic and watch the sky fill with hot-air balloons during the day.
The event is free for spectators and gives them entrance to the Hot Air Balloon School.
Here, you can learn how to run a balloon and see the unique balloons at the Balloon Fantasia.
