Welcome to the International Balloon Festival venue page for Château-d’Œx, Switzerland. This outdoor festival grounds sits in the heart of the village at Place du Village 6, 1660, offering spectacular hot air balloon displays, daily flights, competitions, and the iconic Night Glow. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or returning for the yearly spectacle, we’ve put together practical details to help you plan a smooth visit, from seating and parking to transport and nearby stays and dining.

Dates for 2026: January 24 – February 1. Expect a vibrant crowd, with 20,000–50,000 spectators across editions, and a lineup of events that typically include balloon launches, tethered flights, and the captivating Night Glow. Tickets grant access to the festival grounds; note that Saturday and Sunday tickets are CHF 10, while weekday visits are free.

Think of us as your insider connection—we’ve got you covered with reliable information to secure your seats and plan a stress-free trip, whether you’re traveling from nearby towns or farther afield.

Transport is primarily rail-based via MOB trains from Montreux and Zweisimmen, with weekend direct S50 service from Palézieux and Bulle and connections through regional transit. Parking is available in public car parks near the football pitch and Coop supermarket, with hourly pricing. When planning meals, Château-d’Œx offers several lodging options (such as Hôtel Roc et Neige, Hôtel de Ville, and local B&Bs) to suit different budgets and preferences. We recommend exploring affiliate partner hotels and restaurants for convenient packages and trusted dining experiences. Secure your tickets and plan your visit around the daily balloon flights and the Night Glow for an unforgettable experience.

Venue specifics below cover seating availability, accessibility, and practical tips to help you navigate the festival grounds with confidence.

Venue Details

Location: Festival International de Ballons, Place du Village 6, 1660 Château-d’Œx, Switzerland (outdoor festival grounds in the village).
Date window: January 24 – February 1, 2026 (9 days).
Attendance context: Historically, 20,000–50,000 spectators per edition.
Events: Daily balloon flights, competitions, and the Night Glow.

Seating & Viewing

Festival grounds are largely open with mixed viewing areas; seating may be limited in formal seats on certain days. Expect a crowd-friendly layout with sightlines across common gather spots.
Arrive early for popular flight times and Night Glow to secure prime spots. We’ve got you covered with tips to find comfortable viewing areas near key activity zones.

Parking

Public car parks are available near the football pitch and Coop supermarket. Parking is typically priced per hour; availability can vary on peak days.
Consider arriving early to secure parking closer to the festival entrances and avoid peak traffic in the village core.

Transportation

Rail access is the primary public transport option via MOB trains from Montreux or Zweisimmen.
Weekend travelers can use the direct S50 service from Palézieux or Bulle. Connections are available through regional transit networks for other origins.
We recommend checking the latest timetable closer to your visit date to coordinate trains with balloon flight schedules and Night Glow events.

Nearby Hotels & Dining (Affiliate Recommendations)

Ticketing & Access

Festival tickets grant access to the festival grounds. Note: Saturday/Sunday tickets are CHF 10; weekday visits are free.
Plan ahead for busy days around peak balloon activity and Night Glow sessions to secure your preferred entry times.

Accessibility & Practical Tips

Grounds are outdoor and can be uneven; wear comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate gear for cold January days.
Public transit is the recommended way to reach the festival to minimize parking and traffic concerns.
Check the festival’s official channels for any schedule changes or updates on the Night Glow and balloon flights.

International Balloon Festival Tickets

Upcoming Events at International Balloon Festival