Art of Flight Festival

Event Background 

The Art of Flight Festival is inspired by similar ballooning festivals held in Australia and around the world. The popularity of these events is evident in the number of competitors, spectators, and overnight visitors they attract. We envision this festival promoting Victory as the premier destination for hot air ballooning, thanks to its near-perfect flying conditions and stunning natural beauty. Additionally, the event will introduce the adventure sport of ballooning to both locals and visitors.

Event Description 

The Art of Flight Festival will host the Australian Hot Air Balloon National Championships, attracting the best pilots from across the country. The event will span five days of competitive flying over the picturesque area of Benalla and its beautiful surrounding townships. The festival will provide a spectacular week of aerial display of hot air balloons competing over the Benalla and surrounds commencing on Monday Morning the 6th April till Saturday morning, April 11, featuring over 20 hot air balloons taking to the skies. Spectators can enjoy the magnificent early morning balloon display, providing incredible photo opportunities throughout the week. On Saturday night, April 11, the Night Glow at Wnagarratta Turf Club will showcase balloons lighting up the night sky, choreographed to music. This evening will be a true celebration, featuring night markets, live music, and plenty of entertainment for children.

Our Vision  

The High Country Balloon Festival aims to establish itself as a significant annual event in Victoria’s High Country, showcasing the region's natural beauty and renowned hospitality. The festival will encourage collaboration between local businesses, tourism providers, and producers, creating a sustainable, community-driven tradition that will firmly anchor the sport of ballooning in our region. The inaugural event in 2026 will feature the National Hot Air Balloon Championship, delivered to world-class competition standards, with up to 25 national competition balloons, pilots, and their crews, along with an international competition director, judges, and scoring teams.

About Us

The Balloon Association of Victoria (BAV) will host the event. BAV is a not-for-profit hot air balloon sporting club based in Benalla. Their members will provide essential support and local knowledge for the event. Our team consists of tourism operators, local business owners, balloon pilots and enthusiasts, and balloon event specialists. We have previously organized several successful ballooning festivals in the King Valley in 2019, 2020, and 2022. The High Country Balloon Festival will increase overnight visitation and spending in the area while also generating media interest in the region.

Support 

Ballooning events in the region have enjoyed strong support from local businesses and the community. This support is essential to ensure the success of the High Country Balloon Festival (not for profit event). There are many opportunities to support, participate and enjoy this amazing event. Together we can establish the High Country Balloon Festival as a significant annual event in Victoria’s High Country calendar.