43rd Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championship

The Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championship is usually referred to as 'The Irish Meet'. It is the longest running National ballooning event in the world. The first event was held in 1971 at New Castle House in Ballymahon, Co Longford and was attended by a handful of balloons. The event now attracts over 40 balloons and has been held in Boyle, Co Roscommon; Kilkenny; Waterford; Athlone; Trim, Co Meath; Kells Co. Meath and Killenkere, Co Cavan.

Here at The Lough Allen Hotel & Spa we are delighted to be the Leitrim venue of choice to host this years championship.

It is expected that between 35/40 balloons will take part, with balloons coming from the UK, The US and across Europe.

 It promises to be a spectacular week, with plenty of photo opportunities.

The highlight of the week will be Thursday 26th September, where the "Night Glow" family event will be taking place, where Balloons will be lit up and flown in the local area, this promises to be a SPECTACULAR sight.