Dolomiti Balloonfestival

The Dolomiti Balloonfestival in Dobbiaco

The Dolomiti Balloonfestival is one of the most evocative hot air balloon events in the Alps. It takes place every year at the beginning of January in Dobbiaco/Toblach, in the Upper Puster Valley, in the heart of the Province of Bolzano and the Trentino-Alto Adige region. For a week, dozens of balloons take flight over the snow-covered valley, offering a colorful spectacle suspended above the famous Tre Cime peaks.

A week of flying among the peaks

Every morning, weather permitting, the balloons take off around 10:00 AM from the launch field located below the Dobbiaco middle school. Crews from various European countries compete in classic aerostatic challenges: distance races, target drops, the famous "fox hunt," Fly in Fly on, judge-declared goals, and the elbow test. Passengers wishing to experience a flight usually meet at the Hotel Savoia; the experience lasts about an hour, including setup and the traditional "flight baptism" at the end.

NIGHTGLOW and remote-controlled balloons

The most anticipated moment is the NIGHTGLOW: at dusk, burners light up the balloons from the inside, making them glow in the dark. Alongside the large aerostats, the festival features shows with miniature remote-controlled balloons, which take center stage during evening illuminations in the town center and at the Nordic Arena. There are also tethered balloon rides for children, who can board safely for a short ascent.

Between Christmas markets and Dolomite snow

The festival has a unique charm because it marks the transition from the Christmas holidays to the heart of winter: when the Christmas markets close, the sky over Dobbiaco lights up with balloons. The backdrop of the Sesto Dolomites and the Tre Cime, often snow-dusted, makes every takeoff a postcard moment. The event is organized by the ASV Dolomiti Balloonfestival and attracts enthusiasts, families, and curious visitors from all over South Tyrol and beyond.

• Daily hot air balloon flights (weather permitting) departing around 10:00 AM
• Aerostatic competitions between international crews
• NIGHTGLOW shows and remote-controlled balloon displays
• Tethered balloon rides for children
• Unique setting in the snow of the Upper Puster Valley Dolomites