The largest hot air balloon festival invades the skies of Alentejo

 Have an unforgettable flying experience from November 7-13 in Portalegre. 

The 27th International Hot Air Balloon Festival, the largest and oldest in Portugal, returns to Alto Alentejo from November 7 to 13, 2024. Spectacular sights will fill the skies above Alter, Fronteira, Monforte, Ponte de Sor, Montargil, and the Abreu Callado Foundation in Benavila, where colorful balloons will soar. If the weather allows 30 teams from countries like Portugal, Spain, France, the Netherlands, and Belgium will offer free flights throughout the week. 

To join one of the 11 unforgettable flights, participants can purchase solidarity bracelets, priced between €75 and €90, available soon on the festival’s website (https://publibalao.com/eventos/fibaq-2024-pilotos-informacao-geral/).  

Since its first edition in 1997, this event, organized by Publibalão, has grown into one of Europe’s most significant hot air balloon festivals. It aims to promote ballooning in Portugal and support important social causes in the participating communities. 

The event goes beyond just thrilling displays and flights; it’s deeply invested in supporting the local community. This year, for example, all proceeds from the sale of solidarity bracelets for balloon flights will go directly to local Volunteer Firefighters, which reflects the festival's dedication to community safety and emergency services. This commitment is particularly valuable for small towns in Alto Alentejo, where resources for firefighting and emergency services are often limited. 

In addition to financial support, the festival fosters local engagement and economic growth. Hosting the event across several towns promotes tourism and boosts local businesses, from hotels to restaurants and shops. By partnering with Publibalão, the organizing body, the festival also raises awareness about ballooning as a cultural and recreational sport in Portugal, further enriching the community’s recreational and social offerings. 

Works Cited 

“NiT.” NiT, 2024, www.nit.pt/fora-de-casa/na-cidade/maior-festival-de-baloes-de-arte-quente-volta-invadir-os-ceus-alentejo. Accessed 13 Oct. 2024.