Hot air balloon festivals are held annually throughout the year and give a chance for balloonist to participate in balloon races and display their balloons during evening balloon glows, and for the public to participate in the spectacle of many balloons gathered in one spot and to learn about the sport. Albuquerque’s International Balloon Fiesta is the largest hot air balloon festival in the world and includes over 700 balloons representing many states and 22 countries.

The London Balloon Festival, founded in 1983, has flown from Harris Park for 25 consecutive years and has featured Hot Air Balloons from around the world that, “fill the sky with colour”. In addition to twice daily Hot Air Balloon launches, the Festival’s combination of day and night time entertainment, full amusement park midway, combined with an extensive selection of food and fun, creates “London’s Family Festival of Excitement”.

The Festival has become a true region-wide activity. Visitors fill lodging and dining facilities within a 40-mile radius, there is a waiting list for balloonists wishing to attend and entertainment groups vie for inclusion. The success of this Festival is attributed to the Chamber’s emphasis on producing a family-oriented event with something for everyone. The Father’s Day Weekend date has become the weekend for weddings, reunions, engagements, and birthday and anniversary celebrations.

In addition to the balloon launches and rides, the festival features various other attractions including a full amusement park midway, concerts, laser shows, and a night glow. Specially shaped balloons are also popular, some so unique that it is surprising that they can fly. Most festivals also include non-balloon related events, such as concerts, fireworks, crafts shows, and car shows. Musical acts featured at the 2007 festival include Canadian artists Sloan and Mobile, as well as London band Bobnoxious.