In 2025, the Canberra Balloon Spectacular will take place from 15 to 23 March, separating it from the Enlighten Festival, which runs from 28 February to 10 March.

This move increases the chance for near perfect balloon flying conditions and is supported by the flight crew and pilots who attend.

Additionally, the Canberra Balloon Spectacular will move back at its original home, the John Dunmore Lang Lawns, East, West, and North Lawns.

This site has a larger footprint, which supports ongoing growth for the event and a better attendee viewing experience.

This year 42,006 people attended the Canberra Balloon Spectacular, up 8.1 per cent from 38,862 in 2023.

The event remains a strong visitor drawcard with 25 per cent of attendees from interstate or overseas, up from 22 per cent in 2023.

With around 40 hot air balloons launching at dawn each day and hot breakfast and coffee available from the food trucks and coffee carts, the Canberra Balloon Spectacular generated a direct economic benefit of $2.1 million for the ACT.