Monday, February 13, 2012

7:40 AM - No comments

The 17th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

Once again, Clark, Angeles City, Pampanga had served as venue for probably the most colorful and eye-catching event to happen in the Philippine sky, the Hot-air balloon festival. Tourists from all over the world had flown to the country all the way to the Clark Free Port to experience this once a year event.


Celebrating its 17th year dating back its first time in 1994, the grand fiesta begun with its traditional hot air balloon flights. From Kung Fu Panda to Sunflowers and even cakes, different characters and styles were flown into the air totaling to over 26 hot air balloons.


 courtesy of REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco
courtesy of REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco

Aside from the awesome showcase of the hot air balloons, different exhibitions and  more varied aerial demonstrations was seen in the event. There was Paragliding, Aero-modeling, kite-flying and many more fun sky-related events.


Some viewers had more fun by riding into a first come-first serve basis on the hot air balloons for a contribution of P 200.00. Cool souvenirs were also given to all the participants of the events to better have a good remembrance of the festival. Overall,it was truly an unforgettable event where you can experience everything that flies,  from hot air balloons, fighter jets, sky lanterns, sky divers, air shows, airplanes, miniairplanes, gliders, kites,etc. 

Missed the fun this year? There is always another hot-air balloon festival for the next year. Just always remember to make early reservations and go there a night or day before the event. Here are some reminders for next year given by the PIHABF organizers:

What to bring:
  • sunglasses
  • sunblock
  • wide-brimmed hat
  • umbrella
  • money for food and souvenirs
  • comfortable footwear
  • binoculars
  • hand sanitizer (for after using the portable toilets)
  • Come early – the balloons lift off at 5:30am.  Consider going to Clark the night before and sleeping over in a hotel.  It's worth it to see the flag jump and balloon launch!
  • Avoid heatstroke!  Water and sports drinks are available for reasonable prices from our many concessionaires.  Remember, if you feel thirsty, it means you're already mildly dehydrated.
  • Don't touch the airplanes!  If you break it, you buy it.
  • Stay away from propellers, rotors, and jet engines.
  • Stay out of restricted areas – the US Air Force and AFP are on patrol, and Clark is our most important air base.  Obey the rules and report any suspicious activity to our friendly security staff.
Stuff you can do:
  • Watch the all-day aircraft shows
  • Buy and fly a kite
  • Eat big at our concessionaires
  • Grab all sorts of cool souvenirs
  • Look around the various displays
  • Meet and hang out with real live pilots and ground crew
  • Most importantly: have fun! :-)

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