Soaring Skies and Spectacle: Art of Flight Festival Takes Off in Benalla

Art of Flight Festival 

The skies above north-east Victoria will become a theatre of colour and precision when the Art of Flight Festival arrives in Benalla from 6–12 April 2026. Set amid the region’s scenic landscapes, this week-long celebration of aviation and ballooning showcases elite skill, breathtaking visuals and community spirit, making it one of Australia’s most exciting new regional events.

With dawn flights, international competition and a glowing evening spectacle, the festival offers visitors a rare opportunity to witness the art and science of flight up close.

International Balloon Championships at Sunrise

Each morning, more than 25 elite hot air balloon teams from Australia and overseas will take to the skies in the International Balloon Championships. These dawn ascents provide a mesmerising start to the day, as vibrant balloons rise with the morning light and drift across the countryside.

The competition forms part of the Australian National Hot Air Balloon Championships, sanctioned by the Australian Ballooning Federation. Results from the Benalla event will help determine which Australian teams qualify to represent the nation at the 2026 World Championships in Krosno.

Fly with the Fleet: A Bucket-List Balloon Experience

Art of Flight Festival 

Visitors can elevate their festival experience by booking a passenger flight and joining the fleet at sunrise. Floating peacefully above patchwork farmland and waterways offers a once-in-a-lifetime perspective of Victoria’s high country landscapes.

Passenger flights are limited and in high demand, making early booking essential.

Light Up the Night Balloon Glow

As the sun sets on Saturday 11 April, the festival atmosphere shifts from serene to spectacular with the evening Balloon Glow. Illuminated balloons pulse with colour in sync with music, while local food, regional wines and live entertainment create a festive environment suitable for all ages.

This twilight showcase is one of the most anticipated highlights of the week and a must-see for photographers and families alike.

Fly In Finale Celebrates Aviation Heritage 

Art of Flight Festival

The festival concludes on Sunday 12 April with a thrilling Fly In at Benalla Airport. Visitors can watch precision flying displays, explore aircraft up close and discover the region’s aviation heritage at the Benalla Aviation Museum and the Gliding Club of Victoria.

This finale celebrates both modern aviation skill and the long-standing traditions of flight in the region.

Plan Your Festival Visit

The Art of Flight Festival combines world-class ballooning, aviation heritage and regional hospitality, making it an ideal autumn getaway in Victoria’s north-east.

Festival Dates: 6–12 April 2026
Location: Benalla and surrounding region, Victoria
Balloon Glow: Saturday 11 April 2026
Fly In Finale: Sunday 12 April 2026

Visitors can follow the festival’s official social media channels for daily updates on launch locations and weather-dependent flight schedules.

Experience the Beauty of Flight

From the quiet wonder of sunrise ascents to the vibrant glow of illuminated balloons and thrilling aviation displays, the Art of Flight Festival delivers a week of unforgettable moments in the skies above Benalla.

Festival information and bookings
Website: https://art-of-flight.com/

Visitor information: https://www.enjoybenalla.com.au

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