Popularly known as “A Weekend of Everything That Flies”, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) will be making its first appearance in the Bicol region from May 3, 2024 to May 5, 2024 at the Old Legazpi Airport in Legazpi, Albay.

The Department of Tourism Region V in collaboration with the Ako Bicol Party List are thrilled to introduce the first ever Hot Air Balloon Festival in Bicol through the upcoming Bicol LOCO Festival 2024.

Typically held in Tarlac’s Clark and New Clark City, the Hot Air Balloon Festival is an enjoyable air show organized by the PIHABF. The event aims to, “ignite aviation interest among youth, instill discipline in aspiring pilots, and foster a spirit of community volunteerism.”

The festival features a variety of colorful hot air balloons including Belgium’s Princess Nelly (elephant), UK’s Dyno (dinosaur), Bella and Buster (two adorable dogs), Brazil’s Bidu, and Party Balloon from the USA complemented by the gorgeous view of the Mayon Volcano. But the fun doesn’t stop there as the festival also showcases some exhilarating aerobatics performed by the Global Stars team. The festival brightens up the sky with smoke trails throughout the day and amazing fireworks shows and drone light shows come night time.

When you’re not too busy looking up at the sky you can also experience more of Bicol through the festival’s Fly Market, showcasing local cuisines through food booths, local products, treats, and smaller exhibitions and so much more!

With the aim to attract 70,000 tourists, Department of Tourism (DOT) Bicol regional director Herbie Aguas mentioned that this festival will be the first time you’ll witness hot air balloons and airplane exhibitions in the Bicol Region. The event will also be holding a mega concert featuring OPM icons such as Sara Geronimo, Bamboo, and Eraserhead’s Ely Buendia.

You can experience the shows completely for free but for anyone looking to trying out the hot air balloon flights, tethered rides, tandem skydiving, or tandem paragliding would have to make reservations ahead of time due to the slots being limited. As of writing the Discovery Flight tickets which allows you to experience a ride on one of the hot air balloons, have been sold out but the Bicol Loco Festival also offers a ton of activities for you to enjoy!

Come join the fun at the Old Legazpi Airport, Legazpi, Albay starting May 3 and ending on May 5. You can refer to the image below for the schedule of activities.

For more details, you can visit Hot Air Balloon Fiesta’s official website or you can also check out their facebook page.