Frequently Asked Questions – Lough Key Hot Air Balloon Championships 2026
Everything You Need to Know About the
54th Irish Hot Air Balloon Championships 2026
The skies over Lough Key Forest & Activity Park will once again come alive this September as the Lough Key Hot Air Balloon Championships return from 19–25 September 2026.
Each year, the championships attract thousands of visitors who come to experience the spectacular sight of colourful hot air balloons taking flight over one of Ireland’s most scenic locations. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning after last year’s event, we’ve answered some of the most common questions to help you plan your visit.
When are the Hot Air Balloon Championships?
The 2026 Lough Key Hot Air Balloon Championships will take place from Saturday 19 September to Friday 25 September 2026 at Lough Key Forest & Activity Park.
Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy the unique atmosphere as balloon teams from across Ireland and beyond compete in a series of flying challenges, weather permitting.
Do I need to book tickets?
With the huge interest expected for this year’s Hot Air Balloon Championships at Lough Key, we are currently reviewing our parking arrangements to ensure the event runs safely and smoothly for everyone attending.
Due to health and safety requirements, traffic management considerations, and limited parking capacity, we may introduce a pre-booked parking system for some or all event days.
This would help us manage visitor numbers, reduce congestion, and ensure everyone has the best possible experience when visiting the championships.
We will share full details, including whether pre-booking will be required and how to reserve a space, as soon as plans are finalised.
What time do the balloons fly?
Hot air balloons generally aim to fly once in the Morning and once in the evening. They aim to fly for 7am and again at 5pm weather dependant.
As ballooning is completely weather dependent, launch times may change at short notice. We recommend keeping an eye on our social media channels each day for the latest updates.
How many balloons will be taking part?
This year, we expect around 25- 30 hot air balloons to take part in the championships.
Each balloon is unique in colour and design, creating an unforgettable spectacle as they lift off over the beautiful surroundings of Lough Key.
Can I book a hot air balloon flight?
The championships are a competitive sporting event, with flights reserved for registered pilots taking part in the competition.
Unfortunately, public passenger flights are not available during the event.
Why are balloon flights so weather dependent?
Safety is the number one priority in hot air ballooning.
For a launch to take place, pilots require calm, stable weather conditions. Wind speed and direction are the biggest deciding factors, while visibility, rain and changing weather forecasts are also carefully monitored.
Sometimes the weather may appear perfect from the ground, but conditions higher in the sky can make flying unsafe.
Who decides if the balloons can fly?
The decision is made by the Event Director in consultation with the competing balloon pilots.
Using detailed weather forecasts and on-site observations, they carefully assess whether conditions are safe for flying. These decisions are always based on safety and are never taken lightly.
Can flights be cancelled at short notice?
Yes. Weather conditions can change quickly, meaning a scheduled launch may be delayed or cancelled with little warning.
We understand this can be disappointing for visitors, but safety must always come first.
Where can I find the latest updates?
The quickest way to stay informed is by following Lough Key Forest & Activity Park on Facebook and Instagram and also the Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships on Facebook. Alternatively check out www.ballooningchampionships.ie for further information
Any changes to launch times, delays or cancellations will be shared there as soon as information becomes available.
Will the Visitor Centre and Café be open?
Yes. Our Visitor Centre, Café and park facilities will remain open throughout the championships during normal operating hours unless otherwise advertised.
As this is one of our busiest weeks of the year, we recommend allowing extra time if you’re planning to visit the café or take part in activities.
Will there be traffic management?
Yes. With thousands of visitors expected throughout the week, traffic management measures will be in place to help everyone arrive and leave safely.
Please follow all event signage and the directions of our parking stewards, event staff and emergency services where required.
To make your visit as enjoyable as possible, we recommend:
- Arriving early, particularly for morning and evening launches.
- Allowing extra time for your journey.
- Following steward directions when parking.
- Being patient during busy periods, especially immediately before and after balloon launches.
We Look Forward to Welcoming You
The Lough Key Hot Air Balloon Championships are one of the highlights of the year, bringing together breathtaking scenery, colourful balloons and a fantastic atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
While the weather ultimately decides whether the balloons can fly, there’s always plenty to enjoy around the park during your visit. We look forward to welcoming you to Lough Key Forest & Activity Park this September and hope you have a memorable experience.
