The annual Balloon Fiesta is held in Koewei Park in Barneveld every August. During the festival, over 30 hot air balloons are launched into the skies. Many of them have unusual shapes, amazing the crowds every year. The main highlights of the popular hot-air ballooning event are the impressive laser show and nighttime balloon glow.
Festival Schedule & Activities
The ballooning program of the four-day festival usually runs from 6 pm to 10 pm, but the gates open for the visitors at 5:30 pm. The schedule applies to all days. The festivities normally begin with the ballon parade at 6 pm, during which the spectators are introduced to the pilots and their balloons.
After the balloons' launch at 6:30 pm, the spectacular evening entertainment program usually runs till 11 pm. It features child-friendly entertainment, live performances of local musicians, and delicious festival food. During the celebration, you can also participate in the Balloon Bingo if you print out a bingo card and cross off all the spotted balloons.
A much-awaited spectacle of each evening is the Night Glow and a complementary laser show. Preparations for the event normally begin at 9:30 pm, but the performance itself unfolds at 10 pm. While dozens of hot air balloons fly up into the dark sky, the ground erupts with flashes of neon lights and visual effects. Enjoy the magical sight of giant glowing balloons, accompanied by excellent music!
Tickets
Entry to the event costs €8 for adults, €5 for children from 5 to 12 years old, and free for kids under 5. Additionally, if you'd like to view the show on the grandstand, you can buy a pass for €6. If you're driving, parking at the venue costs €7. To purchase a ticket for the festival, remember to bring your card because cash payments aren't accepted.
Location
The festival takes place at Koewei Park, which is located on the outskirts of Barneveld and surrounded by luscious greenery. The city is located 11 miles (18 km) from Amersfoort and 41 miles (66 km) from Amsterdam, so getting to the event's grounds by bus or train is quite convenient. Ballon Fiesta Barneveld is also an excellent occasion for a fun camping weekend at the Veluwe camping grounds, 15 miles (25 km) from the venue. You can enjoy the breathtaking balloon show while relaxing near your tent.
History of Balloon Fiesta
The Balloon Fiesta Barneveld has been held since 1982. It was meant to commemorate a cavalry officer, Jan van Schaffelaar, who jumped to his death to spare his besieged troops and ensure his men a free retreat. Balloon Fiesta Barneveld benefits various charities in the area and donates part of its proceeds to a good cause.
