The Rocamadour Hot Air Balloon Festival: A Celebration of the Art of Ballooning

For over 30 years, the Rocamadour Hot Air Balloon Festival has become a major event in the region. Every year, thousands of visitors come to admire the colorful balloons in the sky and enjoy the numerous activities offered on site. But how did this aerial adventure begin?

The Origin of the Festival

The Rocamadour Hot Air Balloon Festival was born in 1986, thanks to a local initiative to celebrate the city's 900th anniversary. At the time, it was simply a gathering of a few balloons, but the event quickly gained momentum. In fact, by the second edition in 1987, more than 30 balloons were present, and the public was already showing up.

The Evolution of the Festival

Since its creation, the Rocamadour Hot Air Balloon Festival has undergone many changes to become the event we know today. First of all, the duration of the event was increased from a weekend to a full week, in order to allow visitors to enjoy all the activities offered.

Then, the number of balloons has steadily increased to more than 40 in 2021. The pilots come from all over France, but also from foreign countries such as Spain or Belgium.

The festival also offers many activities for all ages: balloon rides, concerts, exhibitions, street performances, workshops for children, etc. Not to mention the traditional "Night Glow," a night show where balloons are illuminated to the rhythm of music.

How to Attend the Festival?

The Rocamadour Hot Air Balloon Festival takes place every year at the end of September. It is held at the Livernon aerodrome site, about 30 minutes by car from Rocamadour. Admission is charged, but the rates are reasonable, and it is possible to buy tickets in advance online.

For visitors who want to extend their stay in the region, many accommodations are available in Rocamadour and the surrounding area. However, it is advisable to book in advance, as accommodations are in high demand during the festival period.

The Rocamadour Hot Air Balloon Festival has become a must-see event in the region, attracting thousands of visitors every year to admire the colorful balloons in the sky. If you are a hot air balloon enthusiast or simply looking for a unique event to discover with your family, the Rocamadour festival is an experience not to be missed.