Featured Photo Credit: Greg Meland/Shutterstock
Imagine the early morning sun stretching across the horizon as colossal hot-air balloons adorned with brilliant shades of red, green, yellow, violet—and everything in between—begin to rise and fill the blue skies above. Families spread out their blankets on the lawn and join in a chorus of “oohs” and “ahhs” at the magnificent sight.
It’s no wonder that people flock from all around the globe to witness the pageantry of a hot-air balloon festival. Here, spectators are treated to a feast for the eyes, but the enchanting visions of these magical flying orbs are just the beginning. Festivals spanning from the high desert of Albuquerque to the snow-capped Swiss Alps offer a wide range of family-friendly activities and engaging cultural opportunities that combine to create a spectacle you won’t soon forget.
For those looking skyward, here are the best fests to enjoy on a colorful, airborne getaway.
Photo Credit: Neil Lockhart/Shutterstock
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Each October, the skies above New Mexico fill with bright balloons that stand out amongst a red-hued Sandia Mountain backdrop during the world's largest hot-air balloon event. The nine-day Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta attracts more than 500 balloons and thousands of visitors to enjoy everything from awe-inspiring mass ascensions and drone shows to exhilarating chainsaw carving competitions and skydiving. Albuquerque’s high desert location, with clear skies and gentle winds, makes for ideal hot-air balloon conditions, and this spectacular event is a favorite for photographers looking to capture a uniquely beautiful sight.
Where to Stay: Located in the center of it all is Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque Downtown. Spend your morning looking to the skies from the hotel’s rooftop patio then set your sights on the legendary Route 66, situated just a short drive away.
Festival International de Ballons
If you dream of a snowy January spent in the Swiss Alps, then head for the International Hot Air Balloon Festival in Château-d'Œx, Switzerland. This celebrated event offers views of striking snow-capped peaks surrounded by multi-colored balloons. The contrast between the vibrant fabrics and the wintery landscape creates a stunning visual spectacle, as aerial shows and exceptional night glow events set the stage for an unforgettable adventure. Pack your parka to enjoy tethered balloon rides and a true taste of the local culture.
Where to Stay: Relish a stay at Le Grand Bellevue, an SLH hotel participating in the Hilton Honors program, where 20th-century grandeur meets contemporary chic in a captivating alpine setting complete with gourmet dining and hand-crafted cocktails.
Canberra Balloon Spectacular
March marks the beginning of autumn in Australia, with the annual Canberra Balloon Spectacular serving as a popular seasonal event for the country’s largest inland city. The festival takes place on the lawns of Canberra’s Old Parliament House, with dozens of balloons taking flight at sunrise and offering a lively display to enjoy alongside the city’s many landmarks. Here, visitors can enjoy a hot breakfast served up from local food stalls as the morning glow of balloons being inflated and illuminated by their burners creates a beautiful sight.
Where to Stay: Ovolo Nishi, an SLH hotel participating in the Hilton Honors program, is a boutique eco-hotel in Canberra’s cultural precinct, NewActon, a city famed for its modern style, dynamic culture, and pace-setting culinary hotspots.
International Balloon Festival of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu
Looking for an event where you can soak up the summer sun? Quebec’s International Balloon Festival of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, held each August, is Canada’s largest hot-air balloon festival, featuring more than 125 balloons. Known for its impressive scale and vibrant atmosphere, this festival features stunning morning and evening launches, musical performances, amusement rides, and gourmet food options. Enjoy days filled with fun events and be sure to stay past sundown to view Nuits Magiques, an enlightening evening event that combines light and music to create a uniquely magical atmosphere.
Where to Stay: Connected to the shops and restaurants of Complexe Desjardins and located a short walk from Old Montreal is DoubleTree by Hilton Montreal. Unwind at the hotel’s spa, indoor pool, and fitness center, and treat yourself to a signature DoubleTree cookie welcome.
