25th European Balloon Festival underway in Igualada

Over 30 hot air balloons participate in activities marked by health and safety measures

Hot air balloons getting ready for Igualada's 25th European Balloon Festival (by Mar Martí)
Hot air balloons getting ready for Igualada's 25th European Balloon Festival (by Mar Martí) / ACN

ACN | Igualada

July 9, 2021 07:48 PM

The 25th European Balloon Festival kicked off in the town of Igualada, in central Catalonia, with a hot air balloon race on Friday morning. 

Taking place annually since 1997 with pilots from all over the world, this year’s event will be marked by further health and safety measures due to the pandemic.

Most flights, for example, will take place either early in the morning or later in the evening, when weather conditions are best and fewer people tend to gather. 

The ‘Vol de la Ciutat’ will take place on Saturday, with hot air balloons taking off from different locations within Igualada. 

The ‘Night Glow’ will take place that same evening, with a number of hot air balloons lighting up the night sky right before the Stay Homas concert in Parc Central. Only 3,000 people will be allowed to attend the gig, which is part of the Anòlia festival. 

Other outdoor activities for children and adults alike will be held throughout the weekend.