A Weekend of Everything That Flies: Tech, Tourism, and Aviation

A Weekend of Everything That Flies: Tech, Tourism, and Aviation Dreams

Hot Air Balloons Meet Drone Tech

The 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is set for February 13–15, 2026 at New Clark City, Tarlac. This year’s edition promises to be the biggest yet, with 22 special-shaped balloons flown by pilots from the UK, US, Belgium, Netherlands, Macedonia, Switzerland, Germany, and Brazil. A Weekend of Everything That Flies: Tech, Tourism, and Aviation Dreams.

(L-R): BCDA Vice President for Public Affairs Leilani Barlongay-Macasaet, BCDA Officer-in-Charge and Senior Vice President for Conversion and Development Group Engr. Mark P. Torres, PSC Commissioner Edward Hayco, Provincial Government of Tarlac Investment Promotions Officer Frances Canlas, PIHABF Founder and Organizer Capt. Joy Roa, and BCDA Vice President for Investment Promotions and Marketing Kenneth R. Peralta

But balloons are just the beginning. Each day closes with two crowd favorites: the glowing balloon night show and a 500-drone aerial performance painting the skyline with formations and messages. That’s not just entertainment—it’s a showcase of how drone technology has evolved into large-scale synchronized art.

I’ve always said drones are the new fireworks. For readers, this means you’ll witness precision engineering turned into spectacle. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, “Balloon festivals are just balloons.”

Paragliding and FPV Drone Racing

The Fiesta isn’t just about floating gently in the sky. It’s about speed, skill, and sanctioned competition. With Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI) paragliding events and First-Person View (FPV) drone racing, participants from at least six countries—including the UAE, Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, and the Philippines—will compete. A Weekend of Everything That Flies: Tech, Tourism, and Aviation Dreams

FPV drone racing is particularly fascinating. Pilots wear goggles that stream live video from their drones, creating an immersive cockpit experience. It’s esports meets aviation.

I’ve always argued that drone racing is the Formula 1 of the skies. For readers, this means you’ll see technology pushed to its limits in real time. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, “Drone racing is just a hobby.”

Soccer Drones and Paper Planes

Adding a playful twist is the Soccer Drone competition, a rising global sport where drones battle for goals in a demo court. The Fiesta hopes to host a world championship in the future.

School teams from FEATI University and PATTS College of Aeronautics are forming squads to compete, with winners representing the Philippines internationally.

Meanwhile, the Paper Plane competition invites all ages to join. It’s low-tech fun alongside high-tech marvels, proving that flight inspires across generations.

I’ve always said the best tech events balance spectacle with accessibility. For readers, this means you can participate whether you’re piloting drones or folding paper. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, “Aviation is only for professionals.”

Flying Demos and Future Tech

Expect RC airplane demos, aerial dogfights, kite shows, and ultralight formation flying. But the real showstopper? Filipino inventor Kyxz Mendiola demonstrating his homebuilt manned flying drone. Watching him fly inside his creation is a glimpse at the future of personal air travel. A Weekend of Everything That Flies: Tech, Tourism, and Aviation Dreams

This isn’t science fiction—it’s engineering ambition.

I’ve always argued that innovation should be visible, not hidden in labs. For readers, this means you’ll see the future of mobility hovering right above you. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, “Flying cars are just a fantasy.”

Ground-Level Thrills

It’s not all about the skies. On the ground, expect car drifting exhibitions, a buzzing Fly Market, and Pampanga’s famous culinary offerings. Technology meets lifestyle here—motorsport precision alongside aviation spectacle, with food fueling the fun.

I’ve always said festivals should engage all senses. For readers, this means you’ll enjoy tech, speed, and flavor in one place. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, “Balloon fiestas are just for photos.”

PSC Support and Aero Sports Growth

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is backing the Fiesta, supporting paragliding and paramotor athletes preparing for the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand. These same paramotors will showcase their skills during the event.

This isn’t just entertainment—it’s athlete development, tourism promotion, and aero sports growth rolled into one.

I’ve always argued that sports tech deserves as much spotlight as mainstream athletics. For readers, this means you’ll see Filipino athletes training with world-class gear. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, “Aero sports don’t matter.”

Inspiring Careers in Aviation

The Fiesta isn’t only about thrills—it’s about futures. Aviation professionals will share their journeys, from air traffic controllers and mechanics to pilots and flight attendants.

Capt. Joy Roa emphasized inspiring the next generation of aviators. Aviation offers competitive salaries, global opportunities, and the chance to see the world while doing something you love.

I’ve always said career talks are more powerful when paired with spectacle. For readers, this means you’ll leave with both memories and motivation. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, “Aviation careers are out of reach.”

Legacy of Flight and Cultural Exchange

Over 25 years, the Fiesta has delivered unforgettable moments:

The “100 Years of Flying” tribute.
Aircraft rallies across Asia.
Performances by the Breitling Jet Team and Global Stars aerobatics.
Skydiving exhibitions, tandem jumps, and Ms. Aviation competitions.
Cultural exchanges with Turkey, complete with dancers and artisans.
Poster designs by renowned Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor.

This mix of high-flying stunts, cultural showcases, and career seminars has become the soul of “A Weekend of Everything That Flies.”

I’ve always argued that tech festivals should evolve into cultural institutions. For readers, this means the Fiesta is more than an event—it’s a tradition. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, “Balloon fiestas are just novelties.”

My Take: Tech, Tourism, and Inspiration in One

I’ve covered countless tech events, but few balance innovation, culture, and spectacle like the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. It’s drones racing alongside balloons, paper planes competing with ultralights, and inventors flying inside their creations.

What I like most is the inclusivity. Whether you’re a spectator, a student, or a professional, there’s something here for you. It’s aviation as entertainment, education, and career inspiration all at once.

For readers, the benefit is clear: this Fiesta isn’t just about watching the skies—it’s about participating in them. And yes, it also means your next February weekend might just change how you see flight, technology, and possibility.

Discover more at www.philballoonfest.net and stay connected by following Philippine International Hot Air Balloon (@philballoonfest) on Facebook www.facebook.com/pihabf, Instagram www.instagram.com/philballoonfest, and Tiktok www.tiktok.com/@philballoonfiesta.

Fluffy

Tech Editor, gear head , photographer, videographer, editor and all around lover of technology.