Every year in the heart of winter, the charming village of Praz-sur-Arly in Haute-Savoie transforms into an aerial stage for the Montgolfiades Internationales: a spectacular event where hot air balloons color the sky of the Alps and offer visitors an extraordinary show. In 2026, the 35ᵗʰ edition will take place from Saturday, January 10 to Sunday, January 18, promising nine days of flights, emotions, and activities for everyone.
Event Presentation
The Montgolfiades Internationales of Praz-sur-Arly have become over the years an unmissable event for hot air balloon enthusiasts and aerial sensation seekers. Set in an exceptional mountain setting, this meeting brings together each year around thirty hot air balloons that take off into the winter sky, illuminating the horizon with their colorful sails.
The resort benefits from ideal aerological conditions, making Praz-sur-Arly one of the best hot air ballooning spots in the mountains in France.
A Bit of History
The Montgolfiades adventure began in 1991, when a group of air meeting organizers spotted a large field at the entrance of the village, perfect for take-offs. The first edition gathered 12 balloons, and the event quickly grew over the years, organized by the Tourist Office and then enriched by the contribution of passionate pilots and teams.
Many figures from French hot air ballooning have participated in the event, and original challenges, such as the Transalpine Challenge launched in 2004, have marked its history. A famous anecdote tells that the director Claude Lelouch, patron of the event and a secondary resident of Praz-sur-Arly, filmed a sequence with Johnny Hallyday from a festival hot air balloon.
The 2026 Program
The festival will take place every day from January 10 to 18, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a multitude of events not to be missed:
During the Day
- Hot air balloon take-offs morning and afternoon: about 30 hot air balloons rise into the Alpine sky, offering a magnificent spectacle.
- Family activities: workshops for children, brass bands, fun activities…
- Tethered hot air balloon flights: an experience accessible from 1.25 m (depending on aerological conditions) to discover hot air ballooning sensations safely.
Highlights
- Wednesday, January 15 – Children’s Day: activities all day dedicated to the little ones.
- Aerial shows and festivities throughout the week.
The detailed program is subject to weather and aerological conditions, which remain decisive for each flight.
Highlights of the Edition
An exceptional Alpine setting
The contrast between the bright colors of the hot air balloons and the snow-covered peaks of Mont Blanc creates spectacular and memorable images.
A visual and emotional spectacle
Whether it is a free flight, a tethered flight or simply a moment of observation from the ground, each flight is a poetic moment in the sky.
Activities for everyone
Workshops for children, meetings with pilots, or local activities punctuate the days, making the event an ideal family outing in winter.
Practical Information
- Location: Praz-sur-Arly (Haute-Savoie)
- Dates: from January 10 to 18, 2026
- Hours: every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Access: most activities are free and open to the public.
Visitor tip: Dress warmly and bring your cameras to capture this unique aerial show in a magnificent Alpine landscape.
Why Not Make It a Stay?
Combining Montgolfiades and a snow holiday in Praz-sur-Arly or the Espace Diamant is an excellent idea to extend the winter experience. Between Alpine panoramas, Savoyard gastronomy and outdoor activities, the whole family will find wonders to enjoy.
Ready to look up to the sky? The Montgolfiades of Praz-sur-Arly 2026 promise to be a magical meeting to start the year with lightness and color!
