The skies over New Clark City in Capas are set to burst into color once again as the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta makes its much-anticipated return from February 13 to 15, 2026.
Now in its 26th year, the country’s longest-running aviation festival is promising three days of romance, adventure, and sky-high spectacle—perfectly timed for Valentine’s weekend. Couples, families, and thrill-seekers alike can expect dazzling balloon flights at sunrise, adrenaline-pumping aerial demos, live music, food fairs, and nighttime light shows that turn the airfield into a glowing dreamscape.
Three Days of Sky-High Adventure
Festival mornings begin early, with balloons lifting off as soon as 6:30 a.m.—painting the horizon with towering bursts of color against the rising sun. Throughout the day, the grounds transform into a playground of flight and fun, blending aviation displays with technology showcases, car exhibitions, kite-flying, and a bustling Fly Market filled with food stalls and local finds.
As evening falls, the Fiesta shifts gears with concerts and performances that carry on into the night, creating a full-day celebration that keeps visitors entertained from dawn to dusk.
Valentine’s Dinner Under the Balloons
On February 14, romance quite literally takes flight with a special Valentine’s dinner priced at ₱1,800 per person. Set beneath glowing hot air balloons and accompanied by live band music, the experience pairs good food with flickering burners lighting up the sky—an unforgettable backdrop for date night.
Learn, Fly, and Be Inspired
Beyond the rides and spectacles, the Fiesta keeps its educational roots alive with the return of the Aviation Seminar, where students, enthusiasts, and industry professionals can gain insights into flight safety, innovation, and the future of aviation.
The skies will also be buzzing with nonstop action—from paramotor stunts and paragliding exhibitions to futuristic showcases like the Kyxz Hoverbike demo, offering a glimpse into next-generation air mobility.
Meet the Stars of the Sky
This year introduces an eye-catching lineup of whimsical balloon characters making their Philippine debut, including Finley the Turtle from the UK, Tuca the Toucan and the Red and Blue Macaws from Brazil, Walrus from Brazil, and Master Zaba from the UK. Also joining the spectacle are crowd-pleasers such as Iggy the Purple Baby Dragon, Te Amo, Cupid’s Heart, Babbe the Witch, Saxon, and Boo—each adding personality and playful flair to the morning launches.
Beloved favorites are also soaring back into view, including Yoda, Princess Nelly, Busby, Party, Bagger, and La Cartuja, flown by veteran pilots from Belgium, the UK, Switzerland, and the Netherlands—icons that longtime fans look forward to spotting year after year.
High-Octane Competitions and Ground Attractions
Thrill-seekers can catch precision landings at the Paragliding Accuracy Competition, fast-paced FPV Drone Races, and the futuristic spectacle of Drone Soccer. On the ground, drifting exhibitions, classic car displays, family-friendly kite shows, and live musical sets keep the festival buzzing well into the evening.
Tickets and Festival Details
The 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta runs from February 13 to 15, 2026, at New Clark City, Tarlac. Tickets are available on-site or in advance via HelixPay, SM Tickets, and Klook, with the following options:
- ₱750 – General Admission
- ₱1,000 – General Admission + Aviation Seminar
- ₱8,500 – VIP Pass
Schedule of activities:
Festivalgoers can follow official channels and visit the event website for schedules, announcements, and live updates throughout the weekend.
