Each autumn, Canberra’s skies transform into a colourful canvas as dozens of hot air balloons drift above the national capital at sunrise. The Canberra Balloon Spectacular is one of the city’s most iconic events, drawing locals and visitors alike for magical early mornings by the lake.

If you’re planning to head along in 2026, here’s everything you need to know.

What is the Canberra Balloon Spectacular?

The Canberra Balloon Spectacular is a nine-day festival where hot air balloons launch at sunrise and float across the city skyline.

It’s the only hot air balloon festival in the world that flies over a national capital, making it a uniquely Canberra experience. Each morning, weather permitting, up to 40 balloons inflate and lift into the sky, creating the colourful scene many Canberrans have come to associate with autumn.

Visitors can wander among the balloons as they inflate, watch them launch over Lake Burley Griffin and enjoy breakfast and coffee from on-site food vendors.

A highlight of the 2026 event will be the Australian debut of Finley the Turtle, a special-shaped balloon travelling from the United Kingdom.

When is the Balloon Spectacular on?

The 2026 Canberra Balloon Spectacular runs from Saturday 14 March to Sunday 22 March.

Balloons typically begin inflating from around 6am, with launches taking place between about 6:30am and 7am.

Arriving early is recommended so you can watch the balloons slowly fill with air before they take off.

Where does the event take place?

For 2026, the launch site is located at Patrick White Lawns in Parkes, the grassed area behind the National Library of Australia.

Visitors can gather on the lawns to watch the balloons inflate and launch while enjoying coffee, breakfast and the lively morning atmosphere.

How do I know if the balloons are flying?

Balloon flights are completely dependent on weather conditions. Each morning from around 6am, organisers post updates confirming whether the balloons will fly, remain grounded or inflate and tether at the launch site.

Updates are published on the Canberra Balloon Spectacular website and the Events ACT Facebook page.

Even if the balloons can’t fly due to weather, visitors may still be able to walk among them while they inflate on the ground.

Where are the best places to watch the balloons?

Patrick White Lawns: The launch site itself offers the most immersive experience. Arrive early to walk among the balloons and watch them take off up close.

Mount Ainslie Lookout: One of Canberra’s most famous vantage points, Mount Ainslie provides sweeping views over the city, Lake Burley Griffin and the Parliamentary Triangle.

National Arboretum Canberra: Head to Dairy Farmers Hill or the Wide Brown Land sculpture for elevated views across Canberra and the surrounding landscape.

Regatta Point: Located across the lake from the launch site, Regatta Point is another popular viewing spot where you can watch balloons float over the water.

Black Mountain Peninsula: This quieter lakeside location can offer spectacular views of balloons drifting overhead.

Red Hill Lookout: With views stretching across Parliament House, the lake and the Woden Valley, Red Hill is another excellent place to capture photos.

Can you see the balloons from the lake?

Yes. Watching the balloons from the water can offer a completely different perspective, and some of them come right down to the waterline.

Many people bring their own kayak or paddleboard, or hire a boat on Lake Burley Griffin. Options include GoBoat, Love Boats and Canberra Party Boat.

Can you ride in a balloon?

Yes. For those wanting a truly memorable experience, balloon flights are available with commercial operators such as Balloon Aloft Canberra.

Bookings must be made in advance and are subject to weather conditions.

For more information on the Canberra Balloon Spectacular, visit the website.