PHOTOS: Fly away to the 18th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival

Cars parked almost a kilometer away from Omni Aviation's entrance meant a long walk for visitors of the 18th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival last Thursday, and that's just getting to the main gate. Turnout this weekend is expected to be even more as families and barkadas take the long journey to Clark, Pampanga.

 

Some might even come as early as Friday night as the day will be capped not just with hot air balloon pailaw but with an OPM concert directed by maestro Ryan Cayabyab—and that's not even half of the attractions you'd find at the event.

 

GMA News Online went to the annual gathering's kick-off last Thursday to see what's in store for flight fans this weekend: from colorful balloons and kites to balloon-popping contests and the Breitling Jet Team's graceful aerial exhibition. —KG, GMA News