The International Hot-Air Balloon Festival in Château-d'Oex is an annual hot-air balloon festival taking place in the canton of Vaud, district of Riviera-Pays-d'Enhaut in Switzerland. During nine days at the end of January, about 35,000 spectators gather in the Alpine village of Château-d'Œx to see nearly a hundred balloons from over 15 countries.
The beautiful valley, covered with snow, has been hosting this unique event since 1979. Château-d’Œx has become a real Alpine capital of hot air ballooning and the festival — one of the most anticipated events in Switzerland.
The highlights of the International Hot-Air Balloon Festival include a night glow show, when tethered balloons are lit up by their burners, illuminating the mountain. Attendees can enjoy a versatile program of demonstration flights and competitions. Private balloon flights are also available. The public can enjoy bird's-eye views of the mountains of the Pays-d'Enhaut and even spot Mont Blanc, the Jungfrau, and the Matterhorn on a clear day. Children can enjoy tethered flight weather permitting.
