The skies over Mallorca will be vibrant once again as Manacor prepares to host the European Hot Air Balloon Championship. From 12 to 17 October 2027, the municipality will welcome 120 balloons and their pilots from across Europe for this significant event in the ballooning calendar.
Manacor has previously demonstrated its organisational capabilities when it hosted the championship in 2019, which brought together 80 teams and 350 participants from numerous European nations. This experience, combined with the area's ideal autumn weather, has led to Manacor's selection as the venue for the second time.
Mallorca Balloons, the local organiser headquartered in Manacor, will once again coordinate the event, supported by the sponsorship of Schauinsland. Cooperation with the Manacor Town Council will ensure smooth logistics and safety during the various competition tasks.
The championship will not only be a visual spectacle but also a challenge of skill, navigation and precision for the pilots. Flights will be scheduled for mornings and evenings to take advantage of the optimal atmospheric conditions typical of the region in autumn.
With 120 balloons confirmed, this marks one of the largest editions held in Spain, featuring a broad representation of European teams competing over six days. Participants will rely on strategy, airflow reading and decision-making to secure success.
Manacor’s favourable climate — characterised by mild temperatures, moderate winds and clear visibility — makes it especially suitable for ballooning in the Balearics at this time of year. The availability of extensive open spaces facilitates the setting up of balloon camps and necessary infrastructure for teams and accompanying visitors.
The event programme will include official races alongside public activities designed to engage the local community and tourists from other Mallorca towns. Importantly, safety is prioritised with established flight protocols, restricted areas and coordinated emergency measures informed by the lessons learned in 2019.