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Balloon Ascension Day

Soar to new heights on Balloon Ascension Day - join in the colorful festivities and witness breathtaking balloon launches!

Saturday

January 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJanuary 9

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to reach new heights on January 9 with Balloon Ascension Day! This day commemorates the first successful hot air balloon flight by the Montgolfier brothers in France back in 1783. Since then, hot air balloons have become a popular mode of transportation and a symbol of adventure and freedom. Whether you're taking a ride in a hot air balloon or just admiring their beauty from afar, this day is sure to be filled with excitement and wonder. So grab your loved ones and celebrate this historic achievement while looking up at the sky with awe and amazement.

TIMELINE

Balloon Ascension Day Timeline

First Balloon Flight

The Montgolfier Brothers launched the first hot-air balloon called 'Aerostat Reveillon' in Paris, marking the beginning of manned flight.

First Manned Balloon Flight

In November of the same year, Françoise Pilâtre de Rozier and François Laurent d'Arles became the first humans to experience flight in a Montgolfier Brothers’ balloon.

Balloon Crosses English Channel

Jean-Pierre Blanchard and John Jeffries used a balloon to cross the English Channel for the first time.

Balloon Reaches Stratosphere

Explorer II, a gas balloon, reached the stratosphere at an altitude of 13.7 miles, breaking flight altitude records.

Ballooning Becomes Competitive Sport

The Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI) recognized ballooning as an official competitive air sport.

First Balloon Solo Flight Around World

Steve Fossett became the first person to fly solo around the world in a balloon in 2002, after five previous attempts.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Balloon Ascension Day

Host a balloon-themed party

Invite friends and family over for a party filled with balloons! From decorations to games and activities, this is a fun and creative way to celebrate Balloon Ascension Day.

ATTEND

Attend a hot air balloon festival

Research if there are any hot air balloon festivals happening near you on Balloon Ascension Day. It would be a great opportunity to witness the beautiful sight of hot air balloons ascending into the sky.

Go on a hot air balloon ride

If you're feeling adventurous, book a hot air balloon ride for yourself or for a group of friends. This is a unique and exciting way to celebrate Balloon Ascension Day.

RELEASE

Release colorful balloons into the sky

Gather some balloons in various colors and sizes, and release them into the sky in honor of Balloon Ascension Day. This is a simple yet beautiful way to celebrate the holiday.

WATCH

Watch a movie about hot air balloons

There are many movies that feature hot air balloons as part of their plot. Gather some friends and watch one of these films to celebrate Balloon Ascension Day in a cozy and entertaining way.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Balloon Ascension Day

It's a fun and family-friendly activity

Attending a balloon ascension event can be a perfect outing for families, friends, or even solo adventurers. You can admire the colorful and creative designs of the balloons, take pictures, and even ride in a hot air balloon yourself if you're feeling adventurous. It's a joyful and memorable experience for all ages.

It's a unique way to experience the beauty of hot air balloons

On Balloon Ascension Day, you have the opportunity to witness the spectacular sight of hot air balloons taking off and ascending into the sky. It's a breathtaking experience that allows you to appreciate the ingenuity and beauty of these iconic flying vessels.

It's a celebration of history and tradition

Balloon Ascension Day has roots dating back to the late 1700s when hot air balloons were first invented. This holiday serves as an important reminder of our shared human achievements in aviation and showcases the long-standing tradition of launching hot air balloons into the sky.