The International Balloon Festival in Château-d’Oex, Switzerland, kicks off later this month, Jan. 20–28, for its 44th year. So, what can you expect if you go?
The alpine capital for hot-air balloons welcomes you with 360-degree views of the mountains, as well as plenty to see in the nearby regions when you’re not taking in the approximately 100 hot-air balloons arriving from more than a dozen different countries. Over the week-long festival, which got its start in 1979, balloons take to the sky — but so do many other craft. Highlight events include acrobatic flight demonstrations, miniature hot-air balloon shows and tethered flights. Paragliding and helicopter rides are also available.
While during the day, all eyes are on the skies, at night, you can take in some of the illuminated flights, and then enjoy live music, film screenings, drinks and more.
Can’t make it to the festival but still interested in this region’s connection to hot-air balloon travel? Whether you visit later this month or any time in 2024, make tracks for the recently reopened Espace Balloon, a museum dedicated to all things hot-air ballooning and its history.
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