Canberra’s morning skies will be filled with a blaze of colour and movement next month when the Canberra Balloon Spectacular returns during the Enlighten Festival. From Saturday 11 to Sunday 19 March, come along to the festivities and enjoy the colourful spectacle from Patrick White Lawns and at viewpoints across Canberra.
Tara Cheyne, ACT Minister for the Arts, said: “The Canberra Balloon Spectacular is a highlight in the Canberra events calendar every year, attracting multitudes of visitors and locals who get up early to soak in the serene atmosphere of the colourful festival.”
This year features a specially shaped balloon, Buster the Bulldog. Buster originates from the UK, and has travelled all over the world, as far as the Wairarapa Balloon Festival (New Zealand), Lake Havasu Balloon Festival (USA), and the Heritage Inn International Balloon Festival (UK).
Paul Burrows, Buster’s creator and director of Lighter Than Air Ltd, says it would be hard to miss him and his slobbering tongue!
“Buster was born in 2018, making him 35 in dog years. He’s fond of licking small children. Fortunately, he’s well trained, and hasn’t eaten one yet! He’s also fond of water, and is looking forward to flying over Lake Burley Griffin.”
Buster the Bulldog will be part of the Pride Weekend Flight on the opening morning of the Canberra Balloon Spectacular on 11 March, where all the balloons will fly LGTBIQA+ flags.
Early risers (and their dogs) will be entertained by local performers, including the talented duo Mirror Mirror, the Sweetheart String Quartet, and the jazz trio, Bella Groove.
Coffee and breakfast will be available at the Patrick White Lawns balloons launch site.
Balloons announcements will be made at 6.15am daily as the decision to launch depends on weather conditions. If the wind is unfavourable, several of the balloons may still inflate and tether, and spectators can enjoy a hot breakfast while watching the spectacle.
For more information or balloon flight updates, visit enlightencanberra.com, Enlighten Festival Facebook, and Instagram for daily flight information.
