Some weekends are meant for slowing down—but there are weekends intended to make you look up, feel inspired, and remember how exciting life can be. This February, one of those weekends is coming back in full color, sound, and sky-high spectacle.
From February 13 to 15, 2026, the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) returns to New Clark City, Tarlac, bringing with it A Weekend of Everything That Flies.
Where the Sky Becomes the Main Attraction
Picture this: dawn breaks, and hot air balloons slowly rise against the morning sky—some shaped in whimsical, larger-than-life designs you can’t help but photograph. This year’s Fiesta is shaping up to be the biggest yet, featuring 22 special-shaped balloons, the most in its history. Pilots from the United Kingdom, United States, Belgium, Netherlands, Macedonia, Switzerland, Germany, and Brazil will be flying in, adding a truly global feel to the celebration.
As the sun sets, the magic only intensifies. Each night ends with the iconic Balloon Night Glow, followed by a breathtaking 500-drone show that lights up the New Clark City skyline with colorful formations, messages, and moving visuals you won’t forget anytime soon.
Adrenaline in the Air—and on the Ground
The Fiesta isn’t just about watching—it’s about feeling the energy. Guests can witness FAI-sanctioned paragliding and FPV drone racing competitions, with skilled participants flying in from countries like the UAE, Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, and the Philippines. With the Airsports Federation of Asia (AFA) holding its first 2026 board meeting during the event, even more international competitors are expected to join.
One of the most exciting additions this year is the Soccer Drone competition, a fast-rising global sport that blends technology, teamwork, and strategy. A demo and practice court will be open for guests who want to try it themselves, while school teams from FEATI University and PATTS College of Aeronautics prepare to compete—with the winning team set to represent the Philippines in international events.
For families and kids-at-heart, there’s a Paper Plane Competition open to all ages, plus RC aircraft demonstrations, aerial dogfights, and kite performances synchronized to music that keep the skies alive all day.
A Glimpse Into the Future of Flight
One of the most talked-about highlights is the demonstration by Filipino inventor Kyle (Kyxz) Mendiola, who will fly his homebuilt manned flying drone—yes, with himself inside it. It’s a thrilling preview of what personal air travel could look like in the future. Adding to the aerial spectacle are ultralight aircraft performing graceful formation flights around the Fiesta grounds.
Festival Vibes Beyond the Sky
Even when your eyes come back down to earth, there’s plenty happening. Expect heart-pounding car drifting, unique finds at the Fly Market, and, of course, a delicious lineup of Pampanga’s well-loved dishes alongside other crowd-favorite food stalls. It’s the kind of festival where aviation lovers, families, foodies, and adventure-seekers all find their place.
More Than a Festival—A Legacy
The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta has been soaring for more than 25 years. When Capt. Joy Roa took over the event from the Department of Tourism during its third year, the Fiesta began a remarkable evolution—growing into a platform not only for celebration, but for advancing aviation and aero sports in the country.
For those dreaming of a career in aviation, this event is more than entertainment—it’s inspiration. According to Capt. Joy Roa, the heart behind the Fiesta, sharing the magic of flight has always been the mission.
Behind the spectacle is a deeper purpose. With the support of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the Fiesta continues to promote aero sports and non-traditional tourism. PSC-backed paragliding and paramotor athletes preparing for the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand will also be showcasing their skills during the event.
“For over 25 years, this event has been our way of sharing the magic of flight with every Filipino,” shares Capt. Joy Roa. Beyond entertainment, the Fiesta opens doors for young dreamers through aviation career seminars, where pilots, air traffic controllers, flight attendants, mechanics, and safety inspectors share their journeys in an industry filled with opportunity, adventure, and global reach.
From pilots and air traffic controllers to aircraft mechanics, flight attendants, and safety inspectors, real-life professionals will be on-site sharing stories of adventure, challenge, and success in a global industry with strong career potential.
Why You Should Be There
Whether you come for the balloons, the drones, the food, the adrenaline, or simply the joy of watching the sky come alive, one thing is certain—this is not just an event, it’s an experience.
✨ A Weekend of Everything That Flies
📍 New Clark City, Tarlac
📆 February 13–15, 2026
For updates and more information, visit www.philballoonfest.net and follow @philballoonfest on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
If you’re craving an experience that lifts you—literally and emotionally—this is one weekend you won’t want to miss.
