Saku Hot-Air Balloon Festival 2025

Event date:
May 3, 2025 at 2:18 am
Event end:
May 5, 2025 at 2:18 am

The 2025 Saku Hot-Air Balloon Festival promises to be a thrilling event with a variety of exciting activities, competitions, and family-friendly experiences. Here’s everything you need to know about this spectacular event!

Event Overview:

Tournament Name: 2025 Hot Air Balloon Honda Grand Prix Round 1 / Shinsaku City 20th Anniversary Saku Balloon Festival 2025
Dates:
- May 3rd (Saturday/Holiday)
- May 4th (Sunday/Holiday)
- May 5th (Monday/Holiday)
- May 2nd (Friday): Official practice day
Location: Chikuma River Sports Exchange Square, 505-1 Naruse, Saku City, Nagano Prefecture
Organizer: Saku Balloon Festival Organizing Committee

Festival Concept:

The festival is centered around “Inspiring Children!” and is designed to introduce them to the beauty of nature and the wonder of hot air balloons. It’s a family-oriented event that aims to inspire the younger generation while fostering a community spirit. The festival also strives to be accessible to people with disabilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festivities.

Event Highlights:

Hot Air Balloon Competitions: Top hot air balloon pilots from across the nation will compete over three days in this thrilling competition.
Sky Sports:
- Hot air balloon competition flights
- Hot air balloon tethering experience
- Hot air balloon classes
Kids Day (May 3rd):
- Free hot air balloon tethering for elementary school students and younger
- Children’s sketching competition (starting around 8:00 AM)
- Tethered balloon experience
Heartful Day (May 4th):
- Free tethering experience for those with a disability certificate
- Heartful Booth
- Special stage events
Stage Events (May 3rd & 4th):
- Dance performances by local nursery school children and junior high school students
- Special guest performances commemorating the 20th anniversary of Shinsaku City
Experience Events:
- Woodworking classes, foot darts, rag weaving, body painting, and more for all ages.
Food Stalls:
- Enjoy a variety of food, including fried chicken, kebabs, crepes, and food trucks offering tasty treats.
Couple Flight (May 3rd):
- One lucky couple will be invited to experience a free flight in a hot air balloon.
Balloon Illusion (May 4th):
- A stunning display of colorful hot air balloons illuminated by their burners, lighting up the night sky in a fantastic way to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Shinsaku City.

Ticket Price: Free

Additional Information:

Number of Participating Teams: 35 teams (tentative) + 6 official balloons
Expected Attendance: Approximately 350,000 people
Contact Information:
- Saku Balloon Festival Organizing Committee:
  - Secretariat: Saku City Hall Tourism Division
  - Phone: 0267-62-3285
  - Fax: 0267-62-2269
  - Official Website
- Hot Air Balloon Organization (AirB):
  - Phone: 042-394-9078
  - Fax: 042-394-9540
  - AirB Website

This free and fun-filled event is perfect for families, balloon enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy an inspiring day out. Be sure to mark your calendars and experience the magic of hot air balloons in beautiful Saku City!