What to expect at the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta happening in February
There's nothing quite like seeing colorful balloons filling the sky, and if you've ever dreamed of watching them up close or riding one yourself, then you'd be pleased to know that the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is set to return this February.
The 26th edition of the event will take place in New Clark City, Capas in Tarlac from from Feb. 13 to 15.
With the theme "A Weekend of Everything that Flies," the affair will feature a wide range of aviation activities, including jaw-dropping hot air balloons, adrenaline-pumping car drifting, graceful paragliders, Filipino-made human drones, soccer drones, and other epic flying exhibitions.
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In an interview on Radyo Magazin 1278 AM, PIHABF founder and event director Jose Mari Roa said that they try to make a different activity every year to boost interest in the event.
This time around, he highlighted that on top of the ordinary round balloons, a total of 22 special-shaped balloons will be showcased, marking the first time this has happened in 25 years. Some of the shapes include popular characters such as Yoda from Star Wars.
According to him, all the balloons will be coming from seven different countries.
As the event will take place around Valentine's Day, there will also be a special moment for couples with fireworks and music.
"Sa gabi, magna-night glow. May tumutugtog na band, kaya enjoy na enjoy. May dinner kami doon kaya mage-enjoy kayong dalawa makipag-usap sa isa't isa at makita 'yung mga lobo," Roa said.
Apart from that, you can also enjoy what Roa touts as the "biggest drone show in the Philippines" with 550 drones.
Other activities include an international drone race, a paper airplane competition, seminars for those interested in pursuing aviation as a career, a kite flying demonstration, a car drifting exhibition, and paragliding.
For food lovers, there will be an open-air bazaar showcasing culinary delights and stalls featuring local memorabilia and aviation souvenirs. Throughout the entire fiesta, you will also be serenaded by live performances from both homegrown and foreign talents.
How much are the tickets?
Tickets for general audiences are priced at P750, which gives you all-day access to the fiesta grounds on your chosen day. This includes access to the stadium (first-come, first-served) and the fly market. You can also watch aerial exhibitions and competitions along with musical performances.
If you want to attend the Aviation Career Lecture, the price goes up to P1,000. For those of you who really want to maximize the experience, you can get the VIP tickets priced at P8,500. One gives you access to VIP lounges, entrances, and parking slots, as well as breakfast, lunch, and high tea buffet. There will also be an air-conditioned area with a prime viewing spot to watch the activities.
If you want to try the Hot Air Balloon Flight or the Tandem Paramotor, these are priced at P25,000 and P7,000, respectively.
Tickets are available online through this link. You can also purchase them at the entrance gates during the event dates.
