Introduction  |  What Can You Expect  |  Festival Schedule  | How To Get There | FAQs

Hong Kong's first-ever hot air balloon festival has locals and visitors excited as the city prepares for its most unique aerial celebration yet.

The AIA International Hot Air Balloon Fest Hong Kong will transform Central Harbourfront Event Space from September 4-7, 2025, as part of a creative addition to the city's entertainment calendar.
This historic first marks a significant milestone in Hong Kong's evolution as a premier destination for one-of-a-kind experiences. 

You're actually seeing something really special. Hong Kong's sky is filled with amazing floating balloons. Plus, you'll be with excited locals and visitors from around the world who are all just as amazed as you are. It's one of those cool moments where everyone is enjoying the same incredible sight.
 

Introduction

The hot air balloon festival will make history as Hong Kong's first international hot air balloon celebration featuring world-class pilots from around the globe.

The festival runs for four days, at Central Harbourfront Event Space, showcasing everything from massive 23-meter balloons to specially commissioned panda-themed designs created just for Hong Kong.

The waterfront location is perfect for this amazing balloon show. Central Harbourfront Event Space gives you incredible views of Victoria Harbour, making it the ideal spot to watch the balloons and take amazing photos.

This special event shows how Hong Kong is working to bring more exciting cultural experiences to the city and proves we're serious about hosting world-class international entertainment right here at home.
 

What Can You Expect

You can expect amazing hot air balloon rides that go 10-20 meters above Victoria Harbour.

The experience includes watching professional balloon inflation demonstrations that take 20-40 minutes, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how these huge balloons work. Each roped ride fits 2-4 passengers and includes complete safety measures and health checks.

Festival Highlights:

• Night Glow Shows: Bright balloons glowing against Hong Kong's skyline
   
• Celebrity Performances: Live entertainment by Joey Yung and Leo Ku
   
• Interactive Activities: AIA Balloon Run and Playtopia areas provide fun experiences for all ages
   
• Gourmet Food Options: Local food vendors offer great dining with harbor views
   

Hong Kong's Entertainment Shift
 

The hot air balloon festival represents a fresh approach to Hong Kong's entertainment by introducing completely new experiences to the city's event calendar.

This shows Hong Kong's smart strategy to go beyond traditional festivals and embrace innovative international entertainment ideas. 

While cities like Bristol and Albuquerque have hosted these festivals (Balloon Fiesta) for decades, Hong Kong has focused on other types of entertainment until now.

The festival appeals to both families seeking unique experiences and young adults looking for Instagram-worthy moments they can't find elsewhere in the city. 
 

Festival Schedule

The festival offers different session times designed to give you the best balloon viewing experience:

Session Times:

• Morning sessions: 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM or 1:00 PM (varies by day)
• Evening sessions: 4:30 PM to 10:30 PM
   

Important Ticket Details:
Tickets are for single entry only (once you leave), you can't come back the same day. 

Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Family packages are available and offer savings for groups, making this festival affordable for Hong Kong families.

For complete ticket pricing and schedule, visit the official festival website.
 

How To Get There

Reaching the festival venue is straightforward thanks to Hong Kong's efficient transportation system. Several convenient options are available:

From Major Hong Kong Areas:

For directions, accessibility, and weather guide information, you can visit their site here.

From Our Hotel Locations:

Sheung Wan Hotel: Take MTR Island Line from Sai Ying Pun to Central Station (2 stop, about 4 minutes), then a 5-10 minute walk to the harbourfront (total time: ~16 minutes)

Causeway Bay Hotel: Take MTR Island Line from Tin Hau to Central Station (4 stops, about 9 minutes), then a 5-10 minute walk to the harbourfront (total time: ~21 minutes)

Local Transportation Tips:
The MTR system operates until approximately midnight, providing adequate time for post-festival travel. Walking from the Central MTR station is recommended and offers the chance to explore Hong Kong's financial district.
 

What Makes This Festival Special

The festival experience goes beyond just balloon viewing.

Massive balloons with fun designs, including dinosaurs, create a carnival atmosphere while professional photographers help capture moments you'll treasure forever.

 
The mix of international balloon displays with local entertainment creates something uniquely Hong Kong.

Seeing this go from just an idea to reality shows that Hong Kong keeps embracing new experiences that make us different from other cities.

Stay Central To The Celebrations

Book EcoTree Causeway Bay | Book EcoTree Sheung Wan
 

FAQs

When does the Hot Air Balloon Festival take place in 2025?
The AIA International Hot Air Balloon Fest Hong Kong runs from September 4-7, 2025, at Central Harbourfront Event Space with both sunrise and sunset sessions available.

How much do tickets cost for the hot air balloon festival?
Ticket prices range from HKD 90 for students to HKD 880 for premium sunset experiences, with sunrise sessions significantly cheaper at HKD 150-200 for adults.

What safety measures are in place for balloon rides?
The festival includes comprehensive safety measures and health assessments for all tethered rides, which reach 10-20 meters above ground and accommodate 2-4 passengers per ride with professional supervision.