The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is an annual four-day event that showcases various air-sporting activities, such as hot air balloon flights, skydiving, paragliding, aerobatics, and more. It is the largest and longest-running aviation sports event in the Philippines, attracting thousands of spectators and participants from around the world.

The festival was first held in 1994, as a way to boost the tourism and economy of Central Luzon after the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991. It was organized by the Department of Tourism, the Clark Development Corporation, and the Hot Air Balloon Club of the Philippines. The festival aims to promote the Philippines as a sports aviation and travel destination in Asia.

The festival is usually held in late January or early February at the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga, a former US military base that is now a hub for business, leisure, and aviation. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, such as:

• The Hot Air Balloon Flight, which is the main attraction of the festival. It involves dozens of colorful and creative balloons that take off at dawn and dusk, creating a spectacular sight in the sky.

• The Skydiving Exhibition, which showcases the skills and stunts of professional skydivers who jump from planes and helicopters at high altitudes.

The Paragliding Demonstration, which displays the grace and agility of paragliders who soar above the ground using their parachuteshttps://www.vigattintourism.com/tourism/articles/Philippine-International-Hot-Air-Balloon-Fiesta-A-Fiesta-that-Colors-the-Sky.

• The Aerobatic Show, which features thrilling performances by expert pilots who fly their planes in various maneuvers and formations.

• The Kite Flying Exhibition, which involves hundreds of kites of different shapes and sizes that fill the air with color and movement.

• The Night Glow, which is a dazzling display of light and music where the balloons are illuminated from within while they are tethered on the ground.

The festival also offers other activities and attractions for visitors, such as:

• The Trade Fair, which showcases local products, handicrafts, and delicacies from different regions of the Philippines.

• The Food Festival, which offers a variety of cuisines and dishes from different countries and cultures.

• The Carnival Rides, which provide fun and excitement for children and adults alike.

• The Concerts, which feature live music and entertainment by local and international artists.

The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is a fun and festive event that celebrates the spirit of adventure and discovery. It is a great opportunity to witness and experience the beauty and diversity of Philippine culture and aviation.