Hot air balloons
The 2016 Strathaven Balloon Festival takes place on the weekend of August 26 - 28 in Strathaven’s John Hastie Park.
The annual hot air ballooning event is the only one of its kind in Scotland and unlike many balloon gatherings, organisers combine the magnificent sight of hot air balloons with Saturday and Sunday Fun Days, so that there’s something for all the family to enjoy. And entry to the festival is free. This year is a new era for the Strathaven Balloon Festival as it was granted charity status.
Organisers hope the move for the annual event, which will this year run from August 26 to 28, will boost funding for the festival.
The committee see the charity status as a way to attract national and local sponsorship.
The festival has grown to become one of Strathaven’s premier events since it was founded in 1999, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
Gordon McAllan, from the balloon festival organising team, said: “The volunteer team which plans, organises and manages the annual Strathaven Balloon Festival is delighted to announce that the festival has been successful in attaining Scottish charity status.
“This is a very important step in the development of our festival – unique in Scotland and internationally-recognised – since its small beginnings in 1999.
“The festival has over that time become an integral part of Strathaven’s vibrant community year and provides an astonishing spectacle for those 20,000 spectators who now flock to see it.
“It’s a very enjoyable weekend for visitors of all ages and is a significant contributor to