Canberra Balloon Spectacular facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Canberra Balloon Spectacular |
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| Genre | Hot air balloon festival |
| Date(s) | March |
| Frequency | Annually |
| Location(s) | Canberra |
| Inaugurated | 1987 |
| Attendance | 32,000 (2014) |
| Website | http://balloonspectacular.com.au |
The Canberra Balloon Spectacular is a fantastic yearly festival that fills the skies of Canberra, Australia, with colorful hot air balloons. It used to be called the Canberra Balloon Festival. Every March, around 50 hot air balloons launch at sunrise from the lawns of the Old Parliament House. They then gently float over the city for two weeks, creating a truly magical sight. This event celebrates the beauty of flight and brings joy to thousands of people.
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What is the Canberra Balloon Spectacular?
The Canberra Balloon Spectacular is one of the biggest hot air balloon festivals in the world. It happens each year in March, when the weather is usually perfect for ballooning. People gather early in the morning to watch the balloons inflate and take off. It's a very popular event for both locals and visitors.
Where Does the Festival Take Place?
The main launch site for the balloons is the forecourt of the Old Parliament House in Canberra. This historic building provides a beautiful backdrop for the colorful balloons. From there, the balloons drift over various parts of the city, offering amazing views to those on board and on the ground.
When Did the Festival Begin?
The first Canberra Balloon Spectacular took place in 1987. It was started to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the LTBIA, an important local event. Since then, it has grown into a major attraction. Each year, it draws large crowds who come to experience the wonder of hot air balloons.
Amazing Balloons You Might See
Over the years, many unique and fun hot air balloons have participated in the festival. These aren't just regular round balloons! Some have been shaped like animals, famous faces, or even buildings.
- Animal Balloons: You might have seen balloons shaped like dancing honey bees, a friendly turtle, a cute hummingbird, a green frog, or even a bulldog named Buster.
- Creative Shapes: Other memorable balloons include a giant head of Vincent Van Gogh, a traditional windmill, and a tall tropical tree.
- The Skywhale: One of the most famous and unusual balloons is "the Skywhale." It's a very large and unique balloon that looks like a flying whale.
- Cultural Balloons: There has even been a balloon shaped like a Scottish bagpiper, adding a touch of international flair.
What Else Happens at the Festival?
The Canberra Balloon Spectacular is more than just watching balloons. There's lots of other fun stuff to do! You can find entertainment, activities, and plenty of food and drink stalls on site. It's a great atmosphere for families and friends to enjoy together.
Images for kids
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Buster The Dog Balloon
