Twenty hot air balloons to fly over Ecuador's Mitad del Mundo

Quito, Ecuador – Twenty hot air balloons are set to grace the skies above the Mitad del Mundo monument, a landmark straddling the equator in northern Quito, as part of an international festival.

The fifth annual International Balloon Festival Mitad del Mundo will take place from August 20 to 23. The event will commence on August 20 with tethered balloon demonstrations. From August 21 to 23, free flights or tethered exhibitions will occur, contingent upon weather and safety conditions.

Organized by the Prefecture of Pichincha province, the festival extends beyond ballooning. Attendees can also enjoy a gastronomic and entrepreneurship fair, exhibitions of classic and modified vehicles, Formula 1 simulators, technological experiences, and a paragliding air show, subject to technical feasibility.

The musical lineup features Ecuadorian artists such as Dayanara, Swing Original Monks, Gerardo Morán, and Segundo Rosero. Access for aerostatic activities opens at 5:00 AM (10:00 GMT), with concerts starting at 5:00 PM (22:00 GMT). Ticket options will vary for Friday and Saturday, while a single ticket grants access to all activities on Sunday.

Last year's edition attracted 58,797 visitors and generated approximately nine million dollars in economic activity across sectors like transportation, accommodation, and food. Authorities aim to establish the festival as a premier tourist event for Ecuador.