Get ready for a thrilling weekend at the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, packed with hot air balloon rides, paragliding adventures, drone races, paper plane battles, high-flying demos, heart-pounding car drifting, and a buzzing fly market—all in one epic celebration of the skies
Get ready for three days of color, excitement, and sky-high thrills as the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta takes flight from February 13 to 15, 2026 at New Clark City, Tarlac. This edition promises to be one of the largest yet, featuring 22 special-shaped balloons, the highest number in the Fiesta’s history, with pilots from the United Kingdom, United States, Belgium, Netherlands, Macedonia, Switzerland, Germany, and Brazil. Each day will culminate in the crowd-favorite glowing hot air balloons and a spectacular 500-drone show illuminating the New Clark City skyline with vibrant formations and messages.
Aerosports, Drones, and Paragliding Competitions
Thrill-seekers can witness world-class paragliding and FPV (First-Person View) drone racing competitions, sanctioned by the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI), with participants from the UAE, Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, and the Philippines. The Airsports Federation of Asia (AFA) will hold its first 2026 board meeting during the Fiesta, drawing even more international competitors.
Adding to the excitement, the Soccer Drone competition makes its debut, allowing visitors to try out the fast-growing sport, with local school teams preparing to compete internationally. Fun for all ages continues with Paper Plane contests, RC airplane demos, aerial dogfights, and kite shows, filling the skies with nonstop action.
Innovative Flights and Ground Attractions
Filipino inventor Kyxz Mendiola will demonstrate his homebuilt manned flying drone, giving a glimpse of the future of personal air travel. Ultralights will perform their signature formation flights, while on the ground, guests can enjoy car drifting, a lively Fly Market, and savor local Pampanga delicacies and popular food choices.
Boosting Tourism and Local Economy
With the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) supporting paragliding and paramotor athletes, the Fiesta aims to boost Aero Sports and attract non-traditional tourism. This collaboration also supports Filipino athletes competing in international events, including the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.
Voices from the Fiesta
“For over 25 years, this event has been our way of sharing the magic of flight with every Filipino,” shared Capt. Joy Roa, expressing his excitement for the 2026 edition. “We’re thrilled to bring even more experiences that inspire, amaze, and open doors to the world of aviation.”
Local Government Support
Ms. Frances Canlas, Investment Promotions Officer of Tarlac, emphasized the event’s economic impact: “The Fiesta serves as a beacon of innovation, drawing thousands of visitors, boosting local hospitality, culinary, and transport sectors, and strengthening logistics and supply chains province-wide.”
BCDA Perspective
Engr. Mark P. Torres, SVP and Officer-In-Charge of BCDA, noted, “This edition will be bigger, more vibrant, and inclusive, benefiting local communities while showcasing Clark as a premier tourism and investment destination.”
Inspiring Future Aviators
The Fiesta also highlights aviation career opportunities, with professionals sharing their journeys to inspire the next generation. Attendees can learn from air traffic controllers, aircraft mechanics, flight attendants, safety inspectors, and pilots, gaining insights into careers that combine adventure, competitive salaries, and global opportunities.
A Legacy of Awe and Innovation
Over the years, the Fiesta has captivated audiences with stunning aerial stunts, concerts, and cultural exchanges, including performances by the Breitling Jet Team, Wing Walkers, and aerobatic displays by Mark Jefferies, alongside skydiving exhibitions, Ms. Aviation competitions, and interactive seminars. Cultural showcases from countries like Turkey, combined with artistic contributions from Filipino artists such as Manuel Baldemor, have made the Fiesta a rich blend of entertainment, education, and cultural exchange—truly “A Weekend of Everything that Flies.”
Discover more at www.philballoonfest.net and stay connected by following Philippine International Hot Air Balloon (@philballoonfest) on Facebook www.facebook.com/pihabf, Instagram www.instagram.com/philballoonfest, and Tiktok www.tiktok.com/@philballoonfiesta.
