Patrícia Rosas
- Oct 14, 2021
- 2 min read

PORTALEGRE | International Hot Air Balloon Festival

What a wonderful tip this is!!!

Don't forget to write this mega tip in your diary! Alentejo will host a hot air balloon festival in November, and look how cool, in addition, the festival will have free baptism flights, for those who want to ride a hot air balloon for the first time.

The International Hot Air Balloon Festival returns to the district of Portalegre, in Alentejo, between the 8th and 14th of November. The event will feature the presence of several European teams, who are committed to coloring the skies with free flights.

You can follow all information about this event through instagram @festival.ibaq.

This being the 24th edition of the festival, the oldest of its kind in Portugal, it will take place in several locations in the district of Portalegre, such as Benavila, Fronteira, Monforte and Ponte de Sor. In addition to the participation of Portuguese pilots, balloonists from other European countries are also expected, such as Germany, Belgium, England, France, Spain and Holland.

As usual, FIBAQ promises, once again, to color the Alentejo skies with free flights, where the population is also invited to live the unforgettable experience of flying through the purchase of a solidarity bracelet. For all ages, the activity is free and participation is on a first-come, first-served basis. There will also be the possibility to enjoy free flights, the usual balloon trips, but you will have to purchase a solidarity bracelet. Thus supporting the volunteer firefighters of each locality participating in the festival, since the value of the solidarity bracelets will be reverted to them.

The program also includes nightly shows, called “Night Glow”. Considered one of the most awaited moments in any hot air balloon festival, these are performances of light, color and sound, created by the pilots who, as they prepare to take off, but with the balloons fixed a few meters from the ground, cause the release of flames by the burners.

How to get

The journey by car takes around 2 hr 21 min (227.0 km) via the A6 and IP2 and the cost estimate is €32.72 (toll €13.50 + fuel €19.22).

However, if you choose to go by train, whoever plans the trip with more time will pay less! Buy your ticket with CP Comboios 5, 8 or more days in advance and enjoy discounts of up to 65%. Advance refers to the day of travel, up to a limit of 60 days, for all destinations.

The ticket price varies between €28.30 and €12.25, the train journey takes up to 4 hours and 15 minutes, depending on where you leave.

Make your price simulation here and buy now!