The Balloons Are Back – And We’re Doing It All Again in 2026

I’m delighted to confirm that the Irish Hot Air Balloon Championships will return to Lough Key Forest & Activity Park from 19–25 September 2026.

After the incredible success of the Championships in 2025, it was clear that the appetite was there—for more colour in the skies, more atmosphere in the park, and more moments that brought people together. Seeing balloons back over Lough Key and Boyle again brought back memories for so many of us, and it was a real privilege to help bring that experience back.

The feedback from balloonists, visitors and the local community was hugely positive. As Frank Meldon of the Irish Ballooning Association put it, balloonists were “delighted with the warm welcome from the local community and the incredible flying,” and they’re already looking forward to returning in 2026.

Events like this don’t happen without strong collaboration. We’re very grateful for the continued support of Roscommon County Council, along with our partners in the Irish Ballooning Association and the Boyle Town Team, whose enthusiasm and commitment helped make 2025 such a success and have played a key role in securing the Championships’ return.

As we look ahead to 2026, we’ll be taking everything we learned from 2025—what worked well and what we can improve—and using that experience to build an even better Championships week. Our aim is simple: more colour, more community moments, and an even richer experience for everyone.

We’re already looking forward to welcoming balloonists, locals and visitors back to Lough Key next September. – Dermot.

📅 Save the date: 19–25 September 2026