A Dazzling Spectacle of Light, Color, and Tradition
Ajijic’s Regatta de Globos is a magical event that lights up the September sky in this charming Pueblo Mágico of Jalisco. This tradition, with over 60 years of history, brings together teams of local families and businesses who dedicate weeks, even months, to constructing impressive paper hot air balloons.
These balloons, made with vibrantly colored tissue paper, take on shapes and characters that sometimes reach several stories high. The construction process is an art in itself, and over the years, techniques have evolved, resulting in increasingly complex and challenging designs.
On the day of the event, Ajijic’s soccer field transforms into a stage filled with excitement and anticipation. As the afternoon fades, teams prepare to inflate their creations using lit wicks. The moment of liftoff is a spectacle filled with suspense, as some balloons soar majestically into the sky, while others may succumb to the wick’s flame or a treacherous gust of wind.
But the Regatta de Globos is much more than an aerial spectacle. It’s a community celebration that honors creativity, collaboration, and the joy of sharing. Food and drink stalls offer local delicacies and refreshing beverages, while live music fills the air with rhythm and cheer.