The 2025 Canberra Balloon Spectacular has once again soared to new heights and for the first time ever as a standalone event, delighting visitors with breathtaking morning ascents over Australia’s iconic capital city. As Australia’s longest-running hot air ballooning festival, this year’s event cemented its place as a must-see spectacle, drawing balloon enthusiasts, families, and photographers alike from across Australia and globally to witness the magic of ballooning against Canberra’s stunning skyline.
Over the course of nine awe-inspiring mornings from March 15 to March 23, John Dunmore Lang Place in Canberra’s Parkes precinct transformed into a launch for dozens of vibrant hot air balloons. Among the standout highlights were the beloved special-shaped balloons, Axel the Tiger and Simba the Lion, who captivated audiences with their playful designs and towering presence.
Balloon pilot, Kim Hyung Joo, of Balloon Aloft depicts the event: “The Canberra Balloon Spectacular gives everyone the chance to experience Australia’s culture, rugged beauty, and adventurous spirit from every perspective. It is also one of the few (balloon) festivals that allow the public to wander through the launch sites and get up close to the balloons as they inflate and are readied for flight. This is a mind-blowing experience and one not to be missed.”
Attendees were treated to unforgettable photo opportunities starting before sunrise each morning, as vibrant balloons mirrored in the waters of the lake, framed by the city’s iconic landmarks and cultural attractions, including Australian Parliament House, the National Gallery of Australia, the National Museum of Australia, the National Portrait Gallery, the National Arboretum, and more. Previously a signature part of the Enlighten Festival, the Canberra Balloon Spectacular continues to be a testament to the city’s vibrant events calendar, drawing both local and international visitors to experience its charm. Anticipation already begins for the 2026 festival, promising more color, creativity, and sky-high memories.
Canberra is a dynamic world capital that offers something for travelers of all ages, with renowned cultural attractions like the National Gallery of Australia, the Australian War Memorial, and Australian Parliament House, a thriving culinary scene, a boutique, cool-climate wine region just 30 mins from the city center, and spectacular year-round events.
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