The Canberra Balloon Spectacular is considered to be one of the best and longest running hot air ballooning events in the world. Held over nine days, pilots begin laying out and inflating their balloons on the lawns of Old Parliament House from 6.15am each day before ascending into the sky and creating an exhilarating back drop to our national attractions.

The 2017 Canberra Balloon Spectacular will also include some special shape balloons from across the globe adding a sense of novelty to the stunning setting each day. Patrons will be treated to an experience of the senses with a flurry of colour, sound and movement. The atmosphere of the balloons is complemented by delicious hot breakfast available for purchase provided by the Belconnen Lions Club.

Tips for Spectators - Being a spectator at the Canberra Balloon Spectacular is free!

• Events ACT reminds all spectators that hot air ballooning is completely weather dependent. Events may be delayed or cancelled if the conditions are unsafe for flying. A decision to delay activities or cancel them will only be made from 6.00am each morning.  To find out if the balloons are flying spectators can phone local radio stations, call Access Canberra on 13 22 81 or follow Events ACT on Twitter and Facebook from 6.00am during the Festival.
  
• Balloons take between 15-30mins to inflate, depending on their size. Inflation usually commences at 6.15am with the majority of the balloons launched prior to 7.00am. The early bird catches the worm.
  
• Don’t forget your camera to capture all the stunning balloons.
  
• Bring cash if you wish to purchase breakfast at the balloon field.
  
• Bring along warm clothing for possible chilly Canberra mornings.
  
• Bringing pets to the event is discouraged.

Safety Tips

• If a balloon is launching or landing near you, stand well clear and not in front of where the balloon is heading.
  
• Stay well clear of all equipment and walk around, not over ropes.
  
• Ensure young children are closely supervised at all times.
  
• Follow instructions issued by pilots and crew.
  
• Do not smoke near the balloons. Highly flammable propane gas is used in the inflation process.
  
• If you are driving while balloons are overhead, please watch the road and not the balloons.  Or alternatively pull over and stop in a safe place.
  
• Pets can be frightened by the balloons and noise of the gas burners. Be mindful of this if the balloons are overhead and take necessary precautions.
  
• Kings Edward Terrace will be closed from Parkes Place East to Parkes Place West from 5.45am to approximately 9.45am each day of the Canberra Balloon Spectacular.

Plan your morning

Parking/TransportParking in the Parliamentary Zone is the best option for those driving to the event.

Standard ACTION bus timetables apply for the event. Visit www.transport.act.gov.au for timetables and routes.

All attendees should be aware that it is an offence under the National Land (Road Transport) Ordinance 2014 to park a vehicle on open space in the area where the Canberra Balloon Spectacular is being held. Open space is any area that is not designed for the movement or parking of motor vehicles, such as grassed areas, footpaths and landscaped areas. 

The National Capital Authority will be enforcing parking regulations for the duration of this event, and attendees should ensure they park legally to avoid the risk of an infringement being issued to their vehicle. Paid parking applies on business days from 8.30am.

Food and Drink
The Belconnen Lions Club’s hot breakfast will be available for purchase at the event each morning.
Hot beverages and Dutch pancakes will also be available for purchase.
What to bring: Camera & warm clothing for cool mornings

ATM
ATM facilities will be available at the balloon field on weekends and the Monday public holiday. If you wish to make breakfast/coffee and other purchases on weekdays please bring cash.

When and Where
Dates: 11 – 19 March 2017
Venue: Lawns of Old Parliament House, King Edward Terrace, Parkes.
Timings: Balloons inflate from 6.15am, launch from 6.30am – 7.00am, breakfast until 10.00am.

Official Website