Aerial Spectacle: Chromatic Balloons Floating Above Croatian Sky
In the heart of summer, the picturesque town of Prelog in Croatia plays host to a captivating event that has become a well-attended late-summer tradition. This year, from August 28 to August 31, 2025, the town welcomed the fourth edition of the Hot Air Balloon Championship.
Croatia, a popular summer tourist destination, has been graced by the vibrant, colourful spectacle of hot air balloons. These lighter-than-air vessels, known as "thermal airships", are propelled through the air rather than simply drifting with the wind.
The Hot Air Balloon Championship in Prelog featured a thrilling combination of competitive races, fiesta fights, concerts, and a rich social program. The event attracted thousands of visitors to the airfield near the Hungarian border, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
The first public demonstration of a hot air balloon took place on September 5, 1783, with the first untethered manned flight occurring in Paris, France on November 21, 1783. The credit for the invention of the first successful human-carrying flight technology goes to the French brothers Joseph and Etienne Montgolfier.
The event in Prelog marked a significant milestone, as it was the first in Croatia to combine competition with displays of ballooning history. A replica of the Montgolfier brothers' first flight from the 18th century was part of the celebration, offering a fascinating glimpse into the origins of this captivating form of aviation.
The championship saw the participation of skilled pilots from Austria, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, Slovenia, and the Netherlands. Up to 20 competition teams took part, showcasing their skills and the art of hot air ballooning.
The event was expertly organized by Croatia's oldest Balloon Association, Balloon Club Zagreb, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants and spectators.
As the sun sets over the Croatian countryside, the sight of these magnificent hot air balloons lighting up the sky is a key late-summer attraction. The fourth Hot Air Balloon Championship in Prelog, Croatia, was not just a competition, but a celebration of aviation history and a testament to the enduring allure of hot air balloons.
