Château-d’Oex in southwestern Switzerland attracts balloonatics—hot air balloon enthusiasts—from across the globe for the Festival International de Ballons. Running Jan. 24–Feb. 2, the 37th annual festival combines competitive events, special displays and family-friendly activities in the scenic Pays-d’Enhaut valley.
The competition lineup offers a variety of races and precision challenges. Highlights include the Parmigiani Target Race for high-precision flying, the Don Quichotte Race, a Fly Back competition and the traditional Hare and Hounds race, where pilots pursue a designated “hare” balloon across the sky. These contests test piloting skill, strategy and teamwork in the unique environment of alpine winds and valleys.
Special Shapes is a popular category that showcases creative and oversized balloons. Among the unique aircraft expected are Francisco Naccarato’s enormous Yellow Jacket from Brazil, Stefan Wälchli’s Policeman’s Head from Switzerland, Benjamin Senn’s Cat from Switzerland and Sébastien Théfaut-Subéry’s Lighthouse from France. These eye-catching shapes create memorable visuals during mass launches and evening glow events.
Air performances add variety to the festival program. Voltige Unlimited Freestyle will present precision aerobatics and freestyle maneuvers by pilot Jérôme Cusin. Sky Chariots and Cloudhoppers introduce single-seat craft with attached balloons, offering dynamic flight demonstrations that contrast with traditional passenger balloons. Remote-controlled (RC) models bring small-scale ballooning to the show, while piloted airships—often called “hotships”—provide an alternative form of lighter-than-air flight.
Families and children are well served by a dedicated Children’s Afternoon featuring tethered rides, live shows and a coordinated group balloon release. Tethered rides allow youngsters and adults to experience the sensation of balloon flight safely while remaining attached to the ground. Throughout the festival, visitors can enjoy festival markets, food stalls and local hospitality, providing a full-day outing for all ages.
For those wishing to participate more directly, passenger flights above the Pays-d’Enhaut valley are available subject to weather and flight conditions. Local pilots operate balloon flights that reveal panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, meadows and traditional Swiss chalets. Because ballooning is highly dependent on meteorological factors, organizers carefully schedule flights and competitions to ensure safety.
Château-d’Oex’s festival blends aviation sport, artistic displays and community events, making it one of Europe’s most engaging winter balloon festivals. Whether attending to watch the spectacle of mass ascents, admire the ingenuity of special-shaped balloons or take a tethered ride with the family, visitors will find a rich program of activities that celebrate the wonder of balloon flight.