The European Balloon Festival 2016 is one of the biggest festivals of its type in Europe and the biggest in Spain. Taking place between July 6 and July 10 this annual event is well worth the trip to nearby Igualada, approximately one hour from Barcelona, where the festival takes place.
European Balloon Festival
This spectacular event, first organised in 1997, brings together international hot balloon enthusiasts, locals and tourists to celebrate and witness a huge concentration of grand and colourful balloons in one beautiful location. Igualada is a municipality of the province of Barcelona and is 40 miles north west of Barcelona city. The town also has a rich agricultural and wine producing history. So don’t forget your wine glasses.
The European Balloon Festival offers a unique opportunity to meet industry professionals, riders and mingle with the 25,000 spectators who attend the festival. There are more than 50 different and unique hot air balloons which participate in the European Balloon Festival to dazzle and amaze you. With a variety of different activities on offer there is something for everyone.
The festival takes place on the Avinguda de Catalunya in Igualada and spectators can witness the magnificent spectacle of the balloons scheduled take offs and even ride in hot air balloon themselves. With competitions and testing taking place at the European Balloon Festival there is even a competitive edge to the programme to add to the excitement.
There are workshops for children, food stands and live music as well so visitors can make a complete day of it whilst you decide which balloon you’ll take an unforgettable flight in. There are different flight packs available with prices starting at €140 and a choice of flight paths so have your cameras or smart phones at the ready.
If you need accommodation for the European Balloon Festival please check out our apartments in Ciutat Vella.
How to get to the European Balloon Festival
By Car – A-2 Exit – 555
By Train – with the line R6 (grey line) Station – Igualada