Don't Miss Hong Kong's First Major Hot Air Balloon Festival This Year
Watch more than a dozen creative balloons light up the sky at the inaugural festival in September.
For the first time, both Hongkongers and those stopping over can enjoy the AIA International Hot Air Balloon Fest (HABFest) in September 2025. Taking inspiration from some of the world’s most famous hot air balloon-focused destinations, such as New Mexico and Cappadocia, the festival will see a total of 16 balloons take to the Hong Kong skies.
Each balloon will represent different countries around the world, including a giant red panda from Japan, a wolf from the UK and a panda to signify Hong Kong. Six of the balloons will be the largest, and will only take off for sunset sessions during the festival , while the smaller balloons will be on display at all times and are perfect for colourful Instagram snaps.
The best part? Depending on the weather, tethered rides may also be available to book in advance so that you can take in the Hong Kong skyline from above the ground. The balloon will remain in a fixed location and there will be limited numbers of passengers, usually between two to four people, allowed on each ride. Visitors will also get a gilmpse into how the experts at the event prepare and inflate the balloons safely.
And it’s not only daytime activities you can look forward to that feature the balloons. The festival’s Hot Air Balloon Night Glow Show will be hosting live music and performances by Hong Kong musicians Joey Yung, Leo Ku, Kenny Kwan, Louis Cheung and more. Plus, all ages can enjoy gifts, games and food stalls which will be in place throughout, or sign up to join a charity fun run along the harbour on September 6.
The Hong Kong Hot Air Balloon Festival will take place between September 4 - 7 at the Central Harbourfront Event Space, and will be open each day from 7AM to 11:30AM and 4PM to 11:30PM. Tickets are already available for purchase via HKTicketing, with information about different tickets available on the HAB website. Tickets are priced from ranging from HKD $150 for an early bird ticket (available until August 10) to just under $1,500, for a regular 2-sunset ticket. Entry is free for children under the age of 3.
