Since the very first edition of the festival in 1997, pilots associated with Globos Boreal have attended on a continuous basis. It all began with Javier Tarno, and over the years this presence has been passed on and strengthened through Daniel Tarno, keeping a very special relationship with this event alive.
European Balloon Festival: largest balloon festival in Spain
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4 Feb 2026
Athletics Football Field (Parque Central), Igualada, Barcelona.
You already know that we’re the kind of people who will go anywhere to fly in a hot-air balloon — Austria, for example. This time, though, we’re coming back home to talk about one of the most iconic events in the ballooning world: the European Balloon Festival.
Considered one of the most important balloon festivals in Europe—and the largest in Spain—it takes place every summer during the first half of July in Igualada, a town located just 60 km from Barcelona. For several days, more than 50 hot-air balloons from all over the world fill the sky with color, turning the city into a must-visit meeting point for pilots, enthusiasts, and curious onlookers alike.
The festival is organized by the Igualada City Council and Ultramagic Balloons, one of the most internationally renowned hot-air balloon manufacturers, headquartered in the same town. Beyond offering a truly spectacular visual experience, the event also acts as a genuine hub for the ballooning community, giving local operators the opportunity to showcase their work, connect with the public, and share their passion for flying.
A MEETING POINT FOR PILOTS
The presence of Globos Boreal pilots in Igualada
Although Globos Boreal does not operate commercial flights during the festival, its pilots have been —and continue to be— very present in Igualada, taking part for pleasure, out of tradition, and in many cases, in competition.
For pilots, Igualada is not just a festival: it is a place to reconnect with old friends, meet new generations of balloonists, and continue to be part of a world that, although it may seem vast, is in reality a big small universe brought together by the air.
WHAT TO DO ONCE YOU ARE THERE?
Night Glow: A nighttime balloon spectacle.
The European Balloon Festival is a very complete event, ideal to enjoy with family, friends, or even on your own if what you’re looking for is to be surprised.
For the general public, there are cultural and recreational activities such as the “wind igloos,” structures created from recycled balloon fabric. These spaces host concerts, workshops, and artistic proposals throughout the festival days, strengthening the connection between sustainability, culture, and ballooning.
In addition, there is the chance to fly on truly special days, when the sky fills with balloons and the landscape turns into pure magic.
A photography contest is also organized, open to both beginners and professionals, where participants can showcase their vision of the festival and compete for excellent prizes.
On the more technical and ballooning side, flights take place in the morning and in the afternoon, taking advantage of the best weather conditions. And, of course, one of the most anticipated moments is the Night Glow: a nighttime show in which the balloons, tethered to the ground, light up to the rhythm of the music, creating a hypnotic spectacle that brings together thousands of people.
YOU CAN EXPERIENCE THIS TOO
Several hot-air balloon companies operate in the area, but our recommendations for experiencing a flight in Igualada are:
Camins de Vent
A company with a long-standing presence in the region, closely linked to both the festival and the territory. They stand out for their friendly approach, professionalism, and deep knowledge of the surroundings, offering flights that combine landscape, history, and the true essence of ballooning.
Globus Kontiki
With extensive experience in international events and festivals, Globus Kontiki is another key reference in Igualada. Their team is made up of highly qualified pilots with a long tradition in the ballooning world, resulting in safe, well-organized, and truly memorable flights.
