About Ballooning
What to Know About Hot Air Balloons
There’s nothing quite like watching a hot air balloon rise into the sky. Whether it’s your first time experiencing ballooning or it’s become a tradition, understanding how it all works can make the experience even more meaningful.
How Hot Air Balloons Work
Hot air balloons fly using a simple principle: warm air rises.
A burner heats the air inside the balloon (called the envelope), making it lighter than the cooler air outside. As the air inside warms, the balloon lifts off the ground. Pilots control altitude by adjusting the temperature, adding heat to rise and allowing it to cool to descend.
While the concept is simple, ballooning is a highly skilled practice that requires training, experience, and careful attention to weather conditions.
Why weather matters so much
Hot air balloons are completely dependent on weather conditions, especially wind.
Balloons do not have steering mechanisms like airplanes. Instead, pilots navigate by changing altitude to find wind currents moving in different directions.
For this reason:
Balloon launches typically happen early in the morning or near sunset
Flights are only possible in low, stable wind conditions
Safety is always the top priority
If conditions aren’t right, balloons may not launch. While this can be disappointing, it’s an essential part of safe ballooning.
What is Balloon Ascension?
A balloon ascension is when multiple balloons launch into the sky at once. This is one of the most exciting moments of the festival, as you’ll see vibrant colors and unique designs lifting off together.
Each launch is carefully coordinated and depends entirely on weather conditions at that time.
What is a Balloon Glow?
A balloon glow happens when balloons remain on the ground and illuminate at night using their burners.
As the flames light up the envelopes, the balloons glow like lanterns, creating a truly unforgettable experience, often set to music.
What is a Tethered Ride?
A tethered ride gives guests the chance to experience ballooning without flying away.
The balloon is secured to the ground with ropes and rises a short distance into the air before gently returning. It’s a great way to get a feel for balloon flight in a controlled setting.
Please note: Tethered rides are weather-dependent and typically available for purchase on-site.