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Panoramic view of hot air balloons in flight on the hill of Toppa Barrata.
© Archivio Balooning Festival

The Ballooning Festival

Large crowds gather in October each year to watch this stunning spectacle above Fragneto Monforte.
Hot air balloons above the historic town of Fragneto Monforte – © Giancarlo Di Tocco / Wikimedia

The Ballooning Festival is the most ancient and picturesque balloon gathering in Italy. It started in 1987 and is organised by the 'Wind and Fire' club.

More than 25 hot air balloons from all over Europe take to the skies during the festival and over 50,000 people come to watch.

Balloons in flight over the churchyard of St. Nicholas and St. Rocco with the bell tower. – © Archivio Balooning Festival
Balloons in flight over the churchyard of St. Nicholas and St. Rocco with the bell tower. – © Archivio Balooning Festival

It is not just a sporting event but also a cultural meeting. On the ground, there is an extensive programme of interesting arts, musical, and cultural events, exhibitions, and handicrafts.

Visit

The Ballooning Festival

Hours

October:
Entry time: 7:00 – 22:00

Pricing

Free entry

© UNESCO World Heritage Centre 2023