CLARK FREEPORT — The 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is set to soar to new heights this year, featuring its biggest and most diverse line-up of aerial attractions to date, according to festival organizer Capt. Joy Roa.
This year’s Balloon Fiesta marks a historic milestone as it welcomes 22 special-shaped hot air balloons from different countries, the largest number ever featured in the event. These uniquely designed balloons—some returning crowd favorites and many making their debut—will take to the skies daily, offering spectators a colorful and imaginative display.
Free flight ascents will take place every morning at 5:30 AM, while the much-anticipated Night Glow will illuminate the evening skies, allowing guests to enjoy activities from dawn until nightfall.
Adding to the excitement, the festival will debut the largest drone show ever staged in the Philippines, featuring 550 drones—a significant leap from last year’s 150. The expanded fleet will allow for more intricate and precise aerial visuals. A Filipino inventor will also showcase an innovative “write-on” drone technology, demonstrating its capabilities live and sharing the story behind its development.
Beyond a spectacle, the Balloon Fiesta continues its mission to promote aviation sports and education. In partnership with the Asian aviation community and the Philippine Sports Commission, the event will host qualifying competitions aimed at forming a national aviation team that will represent the Philippines in international events. This follows the country’s first participation in aviation competitions during the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.
Competitions this year include accuracy landing challenges, winch-assisted flights, basket-targeting contests, and engine-cut landing trials inside the stadium—events that test pilot skill and adaptability, with weather conditions playing a crucial role.
The festival also places strong emphasis on youth engagement, featuring international drone racing competitions with participants from South Korea, Japan, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Thailand. Last year’s champion was notably under 16 years old, underscoring the growing global interest among young aviators. New attractions such as drone soccer, RC aircraft ribbon-cutting challenges, and paper airplane competitions—open to both children and adults—aim to make aviation accessible and fun for all ages.
Educational initiatives remain a core pillar of the event, with aviation career seminars highlighting pathways in piloting, aviation management, and administration. Capt. Roa emphasized the importance of inspiring young people early, noting that the festival serves as a gateway to future careers while promoting positive activities that keep youth engaged and focused.
Additional attractions include kite flying activities for families, ultralight aircraft demonstrations, naval aviation rescue displays, car and motorcycle exhibitions, a fly market, kiddie activities, live band performances, and a Valentine’s dinner experience paired with the Night Glow.
With its expanded lineup of aerial displays, competitions, educational programs, and family-friendly attractions, the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta promises a weekend-long celebration of flight, innovation, and inspiration for all generations.
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