Philippine Hot Air Balloon Festival – Best Tourist Spot

Looking for the best tourist spot in the Philippines? The Hot Air Balloon Festival in Pampanga, Philippines is an annual event that usually takes place in February at the Omni Aviation Complex in Clark Freeport Zone. The festival features various hot air balloon flights, as well as other activities such as skydiving, kite-flying, and paragliding.

During the festival, visitors can watch colorful hot air balloons take off and fly over the Clark Freeport Zone. There are also special-shaped balloons, such as animals, cartoon characters, and other designs that add to the festive atmosphere.

Aside from the hot air balloon activities, there are also food stalls, entertainment, and other fun activities for visitors to enjoy. The festival attracts both locals and tourists, making it a popular event in Pampanga.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and travel restrictions, it is advisable to check the official website of the festival for the latest updates on the event’s schedule and health protocols.

What am I going to expect there? – Best Tourist Spot

The hot air balloon festival in Pampanga is known as the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. It is one of the biggest and most popular hot air balloon festivals in Southeast Asia. The event is held annually in February at the Omni Aviation Complex in Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga.

The festival features a variety of hot air balloons in different shapes and colors, including special-shaped balloons like animals and cartoon characters. Visitors can watch the balloons take off and participate in various activities such as paragliding, skydiving, and kite flying.

Aside from the hot air balloons, the festival also showcases aviation exhibitions, such as aerobatic performances, skydiving displays, and aircraft exhibits. It is also a venue for various food and merchandise stalls, as well as cultural and musical shows.

Is it a must-see event? – Best Tourist Spot

The Hot Air Balloon Festival in Pampanga, Philippines is a must-see event because of its spectacular display of colorful hot air balloons in various shapes and sizes, which take to the skies for several days. The festival also features a variety of exciting activities, such as skydiving exhibitions, kite flying, and aerobatic displays.

This festival is a unique experience that attracts visitors from all over the world, offering a glimpse into the rich culture and traditions of the Philippines. It’s a wonderful opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the hot air balloons as they soar above the picturesque landscape of Pampanga.

How do I get there? – Best Tourist Spot

Here are the steps to get there:

By Air

You can also take a bus or drive to the Clark Freeport Zone. If you are coming from Manila, take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and exit at Dau, Mabalacat. From there, take the Clark South Exit and follow the signs to the festival venue.

By Land

The Philippine National Railways (PNR) also has a station in Clark, which is about 2 kilometers away from the festival venue. You can take a tricycle or a shuttle service from the station to the festival.

By Train

The Philippine National Railways (PNR) also has a station in Clark, which is about 2 kilometers away from the festival venue. You can take a tricycle or a shuttle service from the station to the festival.

Once you arrive at the Clark Freeport Zone, you can ask the locals for directions to the festival venue. The festival usually takes place at the Omni Aviation Complex or the Clark Parade Grounds.

What activities does the event have? – Best Tourist Spot

Here are some activities you can expect to see at the festival:

1. Hot Air Balloon Flights – Best Tourist Spot

One of the main attractions of the festival is the sight of hot air balloons taking flight. Visitors can watch the balloons being inflated and taking off, and even ride in one of the balloons for a fee.

2. Paragliding and Paramotoring – Best Tourist Spot

Aside from hot air balloons, the festival also features paragliding and paramotoring exhibitions.

The festival organizers prioritize the safety of the hot air balloon pilots and passengers, as well as the paragliders, skydivers, and other aviation enthusiasts who participate in the event. However, visitors can still enjoy watching the paragliders and other aviation exhibitions during the festival. If you’re interested in paragliding, you can check out other paragliding spots in Pampanga or nearby areas.

3. Airshows – Best Tourist Spot

Visitors can watch exciting aerial displays by local and international pilots, including acrobatic maneuvers, precision flying, and skydiving performances.

The festival features a variety of aviation exhibitions, including aerobatic displays, skydiving performances, and aircraft exhibits. The airshow is usually held in the morning and early afternoon before the hot air balloon flights begin. Visitors can witness thrilling stunts and maneuvers by skilled pilots, as well as get up close to aircraft displays on the ground. The airshow is one of the highlights of the festival and attracts aviation enthusiasts from all over the Philippines and the world.

4. Food and Beverage Booths – Best Tourist Spot

The festival has numerous food and beverage stalls where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and refreshments.

The hot air balloon festival in Clark, Pampanga also offers a variety of food options for visitors to enjoy. There are food stalls and vendors scattered throughout the festival grounds, offering both local and international cuisine. Here are some popular food options to try out during the hot-air balloon festival in Clark:

1. Barbecue

Grilled meats are a popular festival food, and you can find a variety of barbecue stalls offering pork, chicken, and beef skewers.

2. Street food

Filipino street food like fishballs, kwek-kwek (quail eggs coated in batter and fried), and isaw (grilled chicken or pork intestines) are popular festival snacks.

3. Burgers and hot dogs

If you’re in the mood for some classic festival fare, you can find plenty of burger and hot dog stands around the festival grounds.

4. Churros

For something sweet, churros are a popular treat at the festival. These deep-fried dough pastries are served with cinnamon sugar and a dipping sauce.

5. Local delicacies

The festival also offers a taste of Pampanga’s local delicacies, such as longganisa (a sweet and savory sausage), tocino (sweet cured pork), and pastillas de leche (sweet milk candy).

These are just a few of the many food options available at the hot air balloon festival in Clark. There are plenty of other food vendors and stalls to discover, offering a wide range of cuisines and flavors.

5. Exhibitions and Activities –   Best Tourist Spot

The hot air balloon festival in Clark, Pampanga is not just about hot air balloon flights but offers a variety of activities and entertainment for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the activities you can expect to experience during the festival:

1. Hot air balloon flights

Of course, hot air balloons are the main attraction. Visitors can watch the balloons inflate and take off, and even ride on a hot air balloon for a breathtaking aerial view.

2. Aviation exhibitions

Apart from hot air balloon flights, the festival also features various aviation exhibitions such as aerobatic displays, skydiving performances, and remote-controlled aircraft demonstrations.

3. Food and drink vendors

As mentioned earlier, many food and drink vendors are selling local and international cuisine around the festival grounds.

3. Concerts and entertainment

The festival also features live music concerts and performances by local artists, as well as carnival games and rides.

4. Trade shows and exhibits

Various trade shows and exhibits showcasing different products and services are also held during the festival.

5. Fun runs and sports events

Some years, the festival also includes fun runs and sports events such as a hot air balloon-themed fun run, kite-flying competitions, and a frisbee tournament.

6. Cultural performances

The festival also showcases the cultural heritage of Pampanga through various performances such as traditional dances and music.

These are just some of the many exhibitions and activities that visitors can enjoy during the hot air balloon festival in Clark. The festival is a fun-filled event for the whole family and offers something for everyone to enjoy.

6.Night Glow – Best Tourist Spot

One of the highlights of the festival is the night glow event, where hot air balloons are tethered to the ground and illuminated, creating a beautiful and magical sight.

One of the most popular events during the hot air balloon festival in Clark is the Night Glow. This is a spectacular display of hot air balloons lit up against the night sky, creating a magical and colorful atmosphere. Here are some things you can expect to experience during the Night Glow:

1. Balloon lighting – Best Tourist Spot

The Night Glow typically starts after sunset, with the hot air balloons being tethered to the ground and their burners lighting up in sync to create a stunning display of colors.

2. Music and entertainment – Best Tourist Spot

The Night Glow is often accompanied by live music performances, DJs, and other entertainment, adding to the festive atmosphere.

3. Food and drink vendors – Best Tourist Spot

As with the daytime events, there are also many food and drink vendors available to keep visitors satisfied during the Night Glow.

4. Fireworks – Best Tourist Spot

The Night Glow may also feature fireworks displays, adding an extra level of excitement and spectacle to the event.

5. Photo opportunities – Best Tourist Spot

The Night Glow provides a great opportunity for photographers to capture stunning shots of colorful balloons against the night sky.

Overall, the Night Glow is a must-see event during the hot air balloon festival in Clark. It is a truly unique experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Okay! You got me. What should I bring with me? – Best Tourist Spot

If you’re planning to attend the Clark Hot Air Balloon Festival, here are some things you might want to consider bringing:

1. Sunscreen

The festival takes place outdoors, and you’ll likely be spending a lot of time under the sun. Bring sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

2. Hat

A hat will not only protect your head from the sun, but it will also help keep you cool.

3. Sunglasses

Protect your eyes from the glare of the sun with a pair of sunglasses.

4. Comfortable shoes

The festival grounds can be vast, and you may need to do a lot of walking.

5. Camera

The festival is a great opportunity to take some amazing pictures of hot air balloons in the sky.

6. Water bottle

Stay hydrated throughout the day by bringing a water tumbler.

7. Snacks

Pack some snacks to keep you energized during the day. You can also buy food at the festival, but it can be expensive.

8. Blanket or towel

If you plan to watch the hot air balloons at night, bring a blanket or towel to sit on.

9. Cash

Bring some cash with you for food and souvenirs. Not all vendors accept credit cards.

10. Warm clothing

The temperature can drop at night, so bring a jacket or sweater to keep you warm.

What is the purpose of the HotAir Balloon Festival? – Best Tourist Spot

The purpose of the Hot Air Balloon Festival in Pampanga, Philippines is to promote tourism, boost the local economy, and celebrate the art and science of hot air ballooning. The festival is a four-day event that typically takes place in February, and features various activities such as hot air balloon rides, kite flying, skydiving, and other aviation-related exhibits and shows.

The festival attracts thousands of local and foreign tourists each year, providing a boost to the local economy through increased tourism and related activities. The festival also serves as a platform to showcase the skills and creativity of hot air balloon pilots and other aviation enthusiasts from around the world.

In addition, the festival provides an opportunity for local businesses and organizations to showcase their products and services to a wider audience. Overall, the Hot Air Balloon Festival in Pampanga serves as a fun and exciting event that promotes tourism, culture, and the spirit of adventure.

I’m all set! Do you have some tips for me to enjoy the event? – Best Tourist Spot

The best time to visit the Hot Air Balloon Festival in Clark Pampanga is typically in the early morning. This is when the hot air balloons are usually launched and it is the best time to see them in flight. The festival usually starts at around 5 or 6 in the morning, so plan to arrive early to catch the balloon launches.

It’s also important to note that the festival usually takes place in February, during the cooler months in the Philippines. The temperature can still get quite warm during the day, but the mornings and evenings can be chilly, so be sure to dress appropriately.

Finally, it’s a good idea to check the festival schedule and weather forecast before you go, as there may be changes or cancellations due to weather conditions or other factors.