Hot Air Ballooning
A Weekend of Everything that Flies: Witness the majestic sunrise ascent and world-class aviation displays in the skies of Central Luzon.
Pampanga's Skyward Legacy
Hot air ballooning in Pampanga began in 1994 as a "spirit-lifting" event after the Mt. Pinatubo eruption. Today, it has evolved into the biggest aviation sports event in Asia. Known as the "Weekend of Everything that Flies," the region hosts tens of thousands of visitors who gather at dawn to watch gigantic, special-shaped balloons from around the world paint the sky.
From the massive international festivals in **Lubao** and **New Clark City** to year-round private discovery flights at **Omni Aviation**, this is where the romance of flight meets the beauty of the Kapampangan landscape.
Media Mentions
- "2 Hot Air Balloon Fests set in Pampanga"
Philippine News Agency - "Balloons Color Skies, Lift Up Spirits"
Philippine Daily Inquirer - "26th PIHABF Lands in New Clark City"
BCDA Official News
Lubao International Balloon & Music Festival
Held at Pradera Verde, this event combines the thrill of ballooning with massive sunset concerts featuring OPM legends.
The Experience:
The Lubao festival is famous for its vast, open-field setting and its "Music Festival" component. Visitors typically arrive as early as 4:00 AM to secure a spot on the grass. As the sun rises over the Bataan mountains, dozens of balloons—from classic orbs to giant cartoon characters—inflate and ascend simultaneously. After the morning fly-out, the day continues with bazaar shopping, car shows, and a night glow display set to live music.
📍 Location Details
Address:
Pradera Verde, Brgy. Prado Siongco, Lubao, Pampanga
Logistics:
From Manila: 85 km | 1.5 - 2 hrs
From Clark Airport: 35 km | 45-60 mins
PH International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF)
"A Weekend of Everything that Flies"—the longest-running aviation event in Asia, now hosted at the world-class New Clark City hub.
The Experience:
Historically hosted in Clark, the PIHABF has moved to its permanent new home in **New Clark City**. This is more than just balloons; it’s a full airshow. Expect skydivers, paragliders, drone racing, and radio-controlled aircraft exhibitions. The vast open grounds around the Athletics Stadium provide a comfortable, modern infrastructure for event-goers, with dedicated viewing decks and a more organized "discovery flight" system for those who want to ride the balloons.
📍 Location Details
Address:
New Clark City Sports Complex, Capas, Tarlac (Clark Extension)
Logistics:
From Manila: 105 km | 2.5 hrs
From Clark Airport: 15 km | 25 mins
Omni Aviation: Year-Round Discovery Flights
Can't wait for the festival? Book a private tethered or discovery flight at the heart of Clark's aviation district.
The Experience:
For a more intimate experience, Omni Aviation in Clark offers year-round flight services. This is where many pilots train, and where you can book private hot air balloon rides outside of the crowded festival weekends. It’s perfect for proposals, anniversaries, or high-end photography sessions. You get a direct view of the Clark Parade Grounds and the foothills of the Zambales mountains.
📍 Location Details
Address:
Manuel A. Roxas Hwy, Clark Freeport, Mabalacat, Pampanga
Logistics:
From Manila: 95 km | 1.5 - 2 hrs
From Clark Airport: 2 km | 5 mins
Ballooning Survival Guide
🕒 4:00 AM Arrival
The balloons inflate at 5:30 AM. If you aren't at the gate by 4:30 AM, you will be stuck in traffic and miss the mass ascension.
🧥 Bring a Jacket
Pampanga mornings in Feb/March are surprisingly chilly. Wear layers that you can shed once the sun comes out.
📷 Telephoto Lens
The balloons can be far away. If you’re a photographer, bring a 70-200mm lens to capture the details of the special-shaped balloons.
Want a Closer View?
PTC Gold Members enjoy early-access parking passes and exclusive access to the "Pilot's Lounge" at partner festivals.