Hot Air Balloons Return to Lough Key

As Manager of Lough Key, I can honestly say this past week has been one for the books. After more than 30 years, the skies above our park came alive with colour as we hosted the Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships — and what a magical sight it was.

From the moment the first baskets and burners went up, there was this buzz in the air. Each day felt full of anticipation: would the winds be kind, would the weather hold, and would the crowds arrive? And arrive they did — in their thousands! Seeing families, friends, and neighbours gather to watch the balloons was just incredible.

What really got me, though, wasn’t just the balloons themselves (though they were absolutely stunning), but the smiles on everyone’s faces. Kids gazing up in awe, adults reliving memories from decades ago, grandparents pointing out their favourites — moments like these are why we do what we do.

Of course, hosting something this big wasn’t without its challenges. Parking, traffic, and crowds were no small feat to manage, and our team worked tirelessly to keep everything safe while still letting people enjoy the magic. I’m so proud of our Lough Key staff, who handled it all with patience, professionalism, and plenty of good humour!

A huge thank you also goes to the Irish Hot Air Balloon Association. Your dedication, professionalism, and support for the community made the whole experience seamless. To all the pilots and crews — thank you for sharing your skill and your passion with us. You really made this event unforgettable.

And of course, to the spectators, supporters, and sponsors — you made this week what it was. From patiently waiting through no-fly announcements to cheering as the balloons finally lifted off, your energy and enthusiasm brought this event to life.

Looking back, this week has been about more than just balloons. It’s been a celebration of community and shared memories. Lough Key has always been special, but seeing it as the backdrop for something so magical reminded me why we love this place so much.

As for the future? Well… let’s just see where the winds take us. 😉

Until next time!

Dermot.

Hi Everyone!

There are moments in life that stay with you forever. For me, growing up in Boyle, one of those memories was the magical sight of hot air balloons rising above the trees of Lough Key. I can still hear the sudden roar of the burners, that deep whoosh breaking the stillness of the  crisp September mornings, and the rush of excitement that followed as those colourful giants lifted gracefully into the sky. As children, we’d stand in complete awe, wondering: Would this one float over our heads or drift off into the distance?

Now, more than thirty years later, the Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships are returning home — back to Boyle, back to Lough Key, from the 20th to the 26th of September. It feels like a homecoming, not just for the event, but for all of us who hold those memories close and for the generations who have yet to experience that same magic.

This isn’t just about balloons in the sky. It’s about community. It’s about showcasing the breath-taking beauty of Lough Key Forest & Activity Park — the lakes, the woodlands, the sweeping views — and reminding us just how lucky we are to call this place home. Boyle and the wider area have always been known for their warm welcome, and this event is another chance to show visitors what makes our corner of Ireland so special.

Of course, to ensure its success — and to give us the chance of welcoming the Championships back year after year — we need to do our part. That means supporting the event, following guidance, and using designated parking areas so that everything runs smoothly and safely for both visitors and locals. With the right spirit of cooperation, we can help make this a festival that benefits the town, the park, and the whole community.

I hope that for those who remember the Championships of old, this week in September will bring back the same joy and wonder it once did. And for those experiencing it for the first time, may it create new memories that will last a lifetime.

To see a hot air balloon rise above the trees of Lough Key is something truly special. To have it happen here, in Boyle, is something to treasure. Let’s embrace it, celebrate it, and share it — together.

Look forward to seeing you all here!

Dermot Beggan

General Manager.

To keep up to date with the latest news and flight information please visit: https://www.facebook.com/IrishBallooningChampionship

🎶 Night and Day Festival 2025 is Coming to Lough Key – What You Need to Know! 🌙☀️

Lough Key Forest and Activity Park is thrilled to once again host the vibrant Night and Day Festival — one of Ireland’s most exciting music and arts celebrations! From Friday, June 27th to Sunday, June 29th, our serene park will be transformed into a buzzing hub of music, creativity, and community. 🌳🎤✨

🎉 A Festival Like No Other

This year’s Night and Day Festival promises an unforgettable weekend packed with world-class live music, dj sets, wellness experiences, delicious food, family-friendly fun, and so much more. The festival lineup features a diverse range of talent across multiple stages, blending emerging Irish artists with internationally acclaimed acts.

➡️ Check out the full lineup here: https://nightandday.ie/line-up

📅 Important Notice: Park Closure for the Festival

Please note that Lough Key Forest Park will be closed to the general public from Friday, June 27th to Sunday, June 29th inclusive.
During this period, only ticket holders for the Night and Day Festival will be granted access to the park and its facilities.

We appreciate your understanding and support as we host this incredible cultural event in the heart of County Roscommon.

🎟️ Don’t Miss Out – Get Your Tickets Today!

Whether you’re a music lover, a festival veteran, or looking for a unique weekend experience with friends or family, Night and Day 2025 is not to be missed. Tickets are selling fast – secure yours now and be part of the magic at Lough Key!

👉 Buy tickets here: https://nightandday.ie/tickets

🧭 Planning Your Visit

• Dates: Friday 27th June – Sunday 29th June 2025

• Location: Lough Key Forest and Activity Park, Boyle, Co. Roscommon

• Park Access: Open only to Night and Day Festival ticket holders during these dates

• Website: nightandday.ie

For regular park visitors, we look forward to welcoming you back on Monday, June 30th, when normal operations resume.

Get ready for a weekend of wonder, rhythm, and celebration under the sun and stars at Lough Key. We can’t wait to see you here! 🌌🎶