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If you look to the sky in these five balloon festivals, you will be dazzled by the rainbow colored hot-air balloons punctuating the atmosphere.  From the daredevil to the admirer, everyone is drawn to the magic of this oldest form of airborn adventure. So make sure you’re ready to capture an eyeful of these floating giants as they make their way from the sky into your heart.

Canberra, Australia: Canberra Festival Balloon Spectacular

The Canberra Festival Balloon Spectacular is nine days of watching these monolithic beauties take flight for a world-class event. Commencing on the gardens of the old Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, balloon enthusiasts from all over the world gather here to chow down on local foods and enjoy live entertainment as well as capture every moment of the balloon-filled sky. 

If you’re here every day of this festival you’ll definitely be in for a sore neck as pilots glide over Australia’s iconic landmarks, making the Canberra Festival Balloon Spectacular one of the best.

 Gallup, NM: Red Rock Balloon Rally

New Mexico’s rustic rock formations display the beauty of nature. But when you combine a rainbow effect of large flotation devices hovering over its cannons, you’re in for one fascinating show. The Red Rock Balloon Rally is a dream come true for both nature lovers and balloon pilots looking for a unique adventure way above the colossal canyons. 

And if you prefer your feet firmly on the ground, spectators can join in on the fun by participating in balloon chases.  Not only have the Red Rocks provided the classic western look that are seen in the movies, it is also an idyllic backdrop for capturing giant hot-air balloons as they hover over this rustic landscape. 

St. Hilaire du Touvet, France: Coupe Icare

One part balloon festival, one part parchuting stunt show, Coupe Icare is a paradise for the adventure seeker. While spectators wait with baited breath, colorful balloons and foolhardy daredevils alike take to the skies, suspended by the gentle breezes of France.

Even if you’re afraid of heights, the thrill of what awaits in the air might just be worth you climbing onboard and experiencing the free flight encounter adventures it has in store.  Nevertheless, if you prefer to stay put on the ground, you’ll enjoy looking up and seeing a sea of these enormous balloons dominate the sky.

Taunggyi, Myanmar: Tazaungdaing Balloon Festival

Not even a full moon has the power to outshine this majestic display in the sky. Held on the eighth month on the Burmese calendar (October/November), celebrators head to the streets to partake in a number of celebrations including the annual Tazaungdaing Balloon Festival.  Here, hot air balloons and lit lanterns populate the sky wonderfully as an offering to the cosmos. 

On their way into the heavens these floating luminaries illuminate the dark sky ever-so-effortlessly, while fireworks crackle over their heads. So if you want to be rid of evil spirits, you too should light a lantern or send an animal-shaped balloon to the heavens in order to be a part of this cultural celebration.

Reno, Nevada: Great Reno Balloon Race

Nevada is known for its many captivating events, but none of them take place amid the heavens like that of the Great Reno Balloon Race. For three days in September, you can look to the sky to see 100 multicolored giants take over the atmosphere. 

Arguably the largest ballooning event that allows spectators to watch for free, it has come a long way from its first 20 balloon spectacle that occurred in 1982.  Now it draws thousands of guests to the area, which is exactly what it was intended to do. So back away from the casinos and flock to Reno to watch this grand display.