The hot air balloon is the oldest successful human-carrying flight technology and the first flight was made by a French in 1783. A hot air balloon consists of a bag called the envelope that is capable of containing heated air.

Suspended beneath is a gondola or wicker basket (in some long-distance or high-altitude balloons, a capsule), which carries passengers and (usually) a source of heat, in most cases an open flame. Recently, balloon envelopes have been made in all kinds of shapes, such as hot dogs, rocket ships and the shapes of commercial products.

“Hot air balloon festivals are held annually in many places throughout the year, allowing hot air balloons to gather and participate in various activities. They can include races; evening “night glows”, in which balloons are fired while remaining tetheted to the ground; and rides.” (more on Wikipedia)

Here are few of the most important hot air balloon festivals:

- Lorraine Mondial Air Ballons in Chambley-Bussières Air Base, Lorraine, France

- Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, New Mexico, US

- Adirondack Hot Air Balloon Festival in Glens Falls, New York, US

- Ballonfiësta Barneveld, The Netherlands

- Bristol International Balloon Fiesta  in Bristol, UK

Enjoy the flight!

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