In recent years, the popularity of hot air balloons has soared. Aside from the universally known Cappadocia in Turkey, there are actually many hot air balloon festivals around the world waiting to be explored. Some offer flights over cityscapes, while others let you soar above snow-capped mountains. Come find your perfect hot air balloon adventure together with us!
Spain – European Hot Air Balloon Festival
Igualada
The European Balloon Festival, held since 1997, will celebrate its 22nd edition in 2019. The event takes place over four days in Igualada, Catalonia, Spain. In addition to watching the balloons take off in the morning, the festival also features hands-on craft workshops for kids to make balloon animals, and at night, there’s a spectacular light show with fireworks.
The festival also offers flight services, but these need to be booked in advance. You can take to the skies above Igualada and enjoy panoramic views of this red-brick town, located 67 kilometers from Barcelona.
# Dates:Second week of July each year (dates for 2019 not yet confirmed)
France – International Hot Air Balloon Festival
Lorrain’s Nature Park
Also located in Southern Europe, the Lorraine Mondial Air Balloons Festival is held in northeastern France. This festival is even older than the European one, having started in 1989 and taking place every two years. The 2019 edition will be its 17th, so don’t miss out.
The Lorraine International Hot Air Balloon Festival holds the world record for the most hot air balloons launched simultaneously — can you imagine over 400 balloons ascending into the sky? You’ll have to see it to believe how amazing it is.
# Dates:2019/07/26-2019/08/04
United Kingdom – Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
Ashton Court Estate
The UK’s Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is one of the internationally renowned hot air balloon events. Each year, over 100 balloons take to the sky, along with arts and crafts markets and live music performances. At night, dazzling fireworks and illuminated balloons create a magical visual spectacle.
It’s about a 2-hour train ride from London to Bristol. Once you arrive, just take a taxi to Ashton Court Estate. Even better, this four-day international festival is free to enter — those planning to visit the UK soon should definitely add it to their itinerary.
# Dates:2019/08/08-2019/08/11
United States – Reno Balloon Race
Reno
Located in Nevada, USA, Reno is known as "The Biggest Little City in the World." The reason for this title is that Reno gradually transformed from a ghost town in the early 20th century into a gambling hub dubbed the "Casino Capital," and has now even risen to become the new Silicon Valley. Since 1982, the city has hosted the Great Reno Balloon Race, which is currently the world’s largest free hot air balloon festival.
Aside from the appealing affordability, the variety of creatively shaped hot air balloons is also a major highlight. In the past, there have been incredibly eye-catching balloons shaped like red sausages, carriages, and various animals. Of course, there are also balloon ride services available, allowing participants to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Nevada mountains from a bird's-eye perspective. After the adventure, you can head to the ground to grab some street food snacks to recharge.
#Time:2019/09/06-2019/09/08
Canada – Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu International Hot Air Balloon Festival
Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu
Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu — yes, its name really is that long. Located in Quebec, Canada, it is an inland city. Every year, it hosts the eight-day-long International de montgolfières de Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, a comprehensive carnival featuring hot air balloon shows, concerts, amusement rides, and more.
One unique offering is the hot air balloon VR experience, which allows those with a fear of heights or young children to experience the thrill of flying high while staying firmly on the ground.
#Time:2019/08/10-2019/08/18
Switzerland – Château-d’Oex International Hot Air Balloon Festival
Château-d’Oex
If you think taking off from green fields isn’t unique enough, then head to Switzerland’s Château-d’Oex International Hot Air Balloon Festival (Festival International De Ballons Chateau-d’Oex)! Château-d’Oex is located in Switzerland’s French-speaking region, where you can take off amid snowy landscapes and embark on a thrilling adventure soaring over the Alps. Hot air balloons take off from the festival grounds, with flight durations of about one to one and a half hours. During the festival, there are two daily flights — at 9:30 AM and 2:00 PM. Of course, when it comes to Switzerland, you can’t avoid mentioning its steep prices — a single flight costs around NT$12,000 (390 Swiss Francs).
However, if you don’t want to splurge, you can pay around NT$500 (15 Swiss Francs) for an entry ticket and enjoy the evening light show for free. The festival takes place at the end of January and beginning of February each year, and next year will mark its 42nd edition.
#Time:2020/01/25-2020/02/02
Turkey – Cappadocia
When it comes to hot air balloons, Turkey can’t be left out. Cappadocia in Turkey is hailed as one of the best places in the world for hot air ballooning. Riding a balloon offers panoramic views of the volcanic landscape below. Even if you’re not up for a ride, you can dine at nearby restaurants and enjoy the view through floor-to-ceiling windows, taking in the UNESCO World Heritage-level scenery along with the colorful balloons.
★ Recommended Attractions: Pamukkale, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern
Australia – Yarra Valley
Finally, we have Yarra Valley, located about an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Australia’s second-largest city. The area is famous for its wine production, with the local Indigenous people even calling it “the spring that flows from the valley.” While there’s no official festival, many locals visit during holidays for a short getaway.
Besides visiting wineries and tasting wine, the most popular activity in Yarra Valley is hot air ballooning. A ride allows you to take in the stunning views of the valley and spot wild kangaroos usually hidden in the bush — a truly unique experience.
Bonus | Things to Know When Riding a Hot Air Balloon
Clothing
For clothing, long-sleeved shirts and pants are a better choice; as for footwear, sneakers are recommended because climbing in and out of the hot air balloon is required, and sandals should also be avoided as much as possible. In addition, you can wear a hat with a brim, and ladies should try to tie their hair up—otherwise, once the wind blows, it could be a total disaster.
Vendors
Riding a hot air balloon is already a costly recreational experience. When selecting a vendor, do not use price as the sole criterion; instead, choose vendors with many reviews and a large scale. Don’t regret it later just to save a bit of money.
Safety First
The ascent and descent of a hot air balloon are highly influenced by natural factors such as weather conditions and wind strength. The pilot will make the best decision based on the current situation. If the trip ends early due to poor weather, please follow the pilot’s instructions. Everyone should also be aware of their own physical condition—if you have acrophobia, high blood pressure, heart disease, or any discomfort, don’t force yourself to go. This helps reduce the chances of unfortunate incidents.
Riding a hot air balloon can be said to be the most romantic way to fly and one of the most unique ways to commemorate a trip. Don’t hold back—this year, plan a high-altitude adventure with your family or friends~
(Exchange rates referenced in this article are as of 2019.04.19)
Written by Jess Han | Tripresso Travel Cafe Editorial Team