Mexico’s biggest and most important hot-air balloon festival is held each year in León, Guanajuato.
If that four-hour drive seems too much for local balloon enthusiasts, there’s now a closer option to Guadalajara and the lakeside area.
The Jalisco town of Sayula—recently named a Pueblo Magico—will hold its first Fiesta del Globo from Friday, March 29 to Sunday, March 31. The event was originally earmarked for February but postponed due to adverse climatic conditions.
Hot-air ballooners usually like to take off in the first part of the day, as winds are generally calmer the first hours after sunrise. The fairground will open at 7 a.m., and stay open each day until 11 p.m. Food, drinks and live entertainment will be provided, as well as mechanical games for kids and a camping zone. Rides on hot-air balloons for a charge will also be available. Entry to the festival is free but there may be a small fee for parking.
The fairground can be found at the Centro Regional del Comercio Sayula, on Calle Constitución. Driving time to Sayula from Guadalajara or Chapala is about 90 minutes.
Tips: Wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes, take a hat and sunscreen, and stay hydrated!
The 2024 Festival Internacional del Globo in León is scheduled from November 15 to 18.