When you think about winter, you might think about a trip to the snow, or going whale watching. But, the cool and crisp weather also provides great conditions for hot air ballooning. And, if you’d like to try it out, a festival dedicated to hot air balloons is floating over to Mildura. Watch in wonder as over 30 hot air balloons take to the skies across the region, see cool competitions, and join the action by hopping on your own balloon ride. The Balloons Over Mildura festival will run from July 4 to 12. But, you can also visit during the school holidays for sunrise and afternoon flights. Hot air balloon rides are available before the festival from June 27 to July 3, and during the festival from July 4 to 12.
Balloons Over Mildura festival
Escape to Mildura, and watch a variety of colourful balloons soar over the region at dawn and in the late afternoon. See the balloons inflate, follow their flight paths and cheer on their precise landings. The festival will also include Round Two of the Australian Balloon Federation Hot Air Balloon Grand Prix, where pilots will compete to improve their Australian and world rankings. There will also be a pilots who will go through elite competition training, in preparation for the 2026 World Hot Air Balloon Championships in Poland.
On Saturday, July 4, the Night Glow event will take place. See over 20 balloons illuminate to music, creating a spectacular evening along the riverfront at sunset. There will also be a Key Grab competition at sunrise on Saturday, July 11.
Join in on the fun by treating yourself to your own hot air balloon ride. Operated by Global Ballooning Australia, you’ll meet up in the Powerhouse Precinct, and then take to the skies. Drift over the Murray River, vineyards, orchards and golden plains, and watch the world gently unfold beneath you. Flights last about 45 to 60 minutes, and the entire experiences runs for about 3-3.5 hours.
While you’re in the area, check out the Trail of Lights installation by Bruce Munro, as well as the Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra just across the border in Perry Sandhills.
Mildura is about a six hour drive away from Melbourne, or a one hour flight.
If you can’t make it, but you’d still like to go for a hot air balloon ride, Global Ballooning Australia also run flights in Melbourne, the Yarra Valley and Mansfield.
To make your booking or learn more about the festival, click here.