Legazpi City Takes to the Skies with Bicol Loco Hot Air Balloon Festival

Ready to take to the skies? Come summer, take a trip to Bicol for Legazpi City’s first-ever hot air balloon festival happening from Friday–Sunday, 3–5 May 2024 at the Old Legazpi Airport. Dubbed the “Weekend of Everything That Flies,” the exciting event organised by the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) promises to paint the region’s skies with colourful balloons for the glorious summer.

The iconic region and its famed Mayon Volcano definitely makes for a stunning natural backdrop for our up, up, and away adventures! Keep reading to find out more about the inaugural hot air balloon festival in Bicol.

Also read: 13 Best Airbnbs in Bicol Region — From Naga to Sorsogon

What to expect at the Weekend of Everything That Flies

Image credit (L–R): ian dooley, Kim Tayona | Unsplash

It may be the first hot air balloon festival of Bicol, but Legazpi City is going all out. If you’re planning to attend, expect dozens of hot air balloons, piloted by certified professionals and gracefully rising over iconic Bicol landmarks and tourist destinations. Each balloon will be uniquely designed to reflect these diverse attractions. Keep an eye out for hot air balloons from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Brazil, too.  

But it’s not just balloons that are on display during this inaugural event. Expect daring exhibitions of skydiving, paramotors, drones, ultralight planes, and more throughout the weekend. There will even be a heart-stopping performance by the Global Stars aerobatic team, with incredible aircraft maneuvers that will leave spectators in complete awe.

Also read: 15 Festivals in the Philippines to Anticipate Every Month

What to know about this exciting festival in Bicol

When: 3–5 May 2024
Where: Old Legazpi Airport

The best thing about it? Admission is free!

Indeed, the upcoming Bicol hot air balloon festival promises to be a new not-to-be-missed experience in the region. Other regional draws include the iconic Mayon Volcano, stunning beaches off the beaten path, and yummy (albeit spicy) delicacies. If you’re coming here for the Weekend of Everything That Flies, you might as well tick these must-visit spots off your list, too, right? So, pack your bags, prepare for lift-off, and get ready to experience Bicol like never before!


Featured image credit: ian dooley | Unsplash

Facebook image credit: ian dooley | Unsplash

Celia Grace Nachura

There are very few things Celia won’t do for a good story, but her favourite ones always involve the beach, animals, or any type of outdoor activity. She’s been writing for as long as she can remember, and can usually be found typing away at home with her cute dogs at her feet. Away from work, she spends most of her time trying out every hobby she can get her hands on, from running to crocheting to baking (she’s pretty okay at most things that don't involve cooking).