Twente Ballooning 2024 in The Netherlands

Twente Ballooning is an annual event renowned for its breathtaking spectacle of hot air balloons filling the skies above the picturesque Twente region. Held at recreation park Het Hulsbeek in Oldenzaal, Netherlands, this famous four-day international balloon festival draws thousands of enthusiastic spectators each year. With 35 colorful hot air balloons participating, the festival is scheduled in the last full week of August, from Wednesday to Saturday.

Schedule of Flights

The Twente Ballooning Festival runs from Wednesday to Saturday, with daily hours from 5 pm to 11 pm. At 7 pm, 35 hot air balloons, including special shapes, will ascend into the sky each evening. On Friday, attendees can enjoy the fair throughout the day, culminating in the much-anticipated Nightglow event with fireworks in the evening. The festival will conclude on Saturday with a spectacular fireworks show at approximately 9:30 pm.

The Nightglow (August 23, 2024)

The Nightglow is undoubtedly the highlight of Twente Ballooning. Every year, thousands of spectators gather to witness this spectacular event. Nightglow starts around 10:15 pm on Friday evening when the balloons are set up as soon as it gets dark. The balloons are illuminated by their burners, synchronized to compelling music for over fifteen minutes. This mesmerizing display of light, music, balloons, and fireworks creates an unforgettable experience for many. Traditionally held at the edge of the pond, the Nightglow is accompanied by a massive light show, music, and breathtaking fireworks.

Family Activities

The Twente Ballooning Festival offers exciting events on both Friday and Saturday. The Twente Balloon Festival fair is open from 5 pm to 11 pm on Friday and from 3 pm to 9 pm on Saturday. Saturday at Twente Ballooning is a family affair, offering a mega children's festival packed with excitement from 3 pm to 9 pm. Kids can enjoy bouncy castles, clowns, music, a fair, quad bikes, and much more, ensuring a day filled with fun for the whole family. Starting at 5:30 pm, the Oldtimer Show will feature a stunning display of classic cars, adding to the day's festivities. There is also live music and performances.

Tickets & Parking

Entrance tickets for the Twente Ballooning Festival are €6 per person per day on Wednesday and Thursday and €8 per person per day on Friday and Saturday. Children up to 6 years old can enter for free. Additionally, parking is free for all attendees. For €205, attendees can enjoy a balloon flight experience at Twente Ballooning, including two entrance tickets to the festival site. They'll soar among 35 balloons for approximately 60 minutes, savoring panoramic views from above. The VIP flights are available at €675–€795.

History of the Festival

Twente Ballooning dates back to 1985 when it debuted as Balloonfiesta Brecklenkamp. The first edition gathered about ten hot air balloons and several hundred visitors. However, the crowds grew larger with every new year. The festival changed its name to Twente Ballooning in 2016.