The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta takes place each February at Clark Field, the former American air force base whose long runway now serves commercial aviation as well as events like this one. The four-day festival fills the skies over the Clark Freeport Zone with balloons of every size and design, attracting participants from across Asia and beyond.
Beyond the balloons themselves, the fiesta includes skydiving demonstrations, kite-flying competitions, remote-controlled aircraft displays, and night glow events where tethered balloons are illuminated after dark. It is one of the most photographed events in the Philippines. Book accommodation well in advance if you plan to attend — the hotels around Clark fill up completely, and visitors come from Manila and beyond. The event typically runs Thursday through Sunday in late January or early February.