Every September, the skies over Ajijic come alive with color, creativity, and excitement during one of the town’s most anticipated events of the year: the Ajijic Balloon Regata. More than just a balloon festival, this vibrant celebration reflects the living culture, community spirit, and natural beauty that make this Pueblo Mágico (a special designation given to culturally rich towns in Mexico) an unforgettable destination. Whether you’re planning a trip to Ajijic or looking for a unique cultural experience in Mexico, this event is a must-see—and an excellent reason to book your stay at Hotel Casa Blanca Ajijic.
And it all begins with the stars of the show: the globos de cantoya.
What Are Globos de Cantoya?
Globos de cantoya are handcrafted paper balloons made primarily from delicate colored tissue paper and a flour-and-water paste. They rise into the air using the heat generated from a small flame at their base. Unlike traditional hot air balloons, these paper creations do not carry people—instead, they represent a form of ephemeral art that blends creativity, technique, and just the right amount of daring.
Each balloon may be simple or highly intricate, featuring geometric patterns, cartoon characters, or entirely original designs. What’s most impressive is how, despite being made from such fragile materials, many of these balloons soar high into the Ajijic sky with grace. Watching one rise successfully is a moment that fuses beauty, anticipation, and a deep appreciation for handmade artistry.
Origins and Global History of Globos de Cantoya
The term “globo de cantoya” is derived from Joaquín de la Cantolla y Rico, a 19th-century Mexican aviation pioneer known for his manned balloon flights. However, the tradition of launching hot air paper balloons has much deeper and more global roots.
In Thailand and Taiwan, sky lantern festivals are part of spiritual celebrations. In Brazil, similar balloons known as balões are part of religious and cultural festivities. In Mexico, the craft has evolved into a community-based art form that brings people together.
One of the best-known festivals outside of Ajijic is in San Agustín Ohtenco, a neighborhood in Mexico City, where artisans spend months creating enormous balloons that compete in creative and technical displays. What makes the Balloon Regata in Ajijic special, however, is its spontaneous, festive, and local atmosphere—where passion, family teamwork, and community spirit are as central as the balloons themselves.
The Art of Making Paper Fly
These balloons, crafted by hand using colored tissue paper, tape, and paste, can reach astonishing sizes—some towering as high as 10 meters (33 feet). Many feature complex shapes and layered construction that make inflating and launching them a true challenge.
To launch the balloon, a small flame is lit at its base to heat the air inside. With luck—and skill—it will ascend majestically into the sky… or sometimes, it may burst into flames to the gasps and laughter of the crowd.
That element of risk is part of the appeal. Watching a team wrestle with the wind to prevent their balloon from catching fire is just as thrilling as seeing another float high above, vanishing into the clouds amid cheers from the crowd. This all takes place at the Campo Cruz Azul, the town’s football field located on Calle Revolución just off the main road through Ajijic.
A Tradition That Lifts the Heart (and the Sky)
What’s so special about these paper balloons? In Ajijic, they carry decades of history, loads of passion, and a community that turns tradition into floating works of art. The Balloon Regata in Ajijic traces back to the 1960s, when a few foreign residents taught local children how to make these balloons using tissue paper and homemade paste. What started as a childhood pastime evolved into a major community event, where family teams and groups of friends spend weeks building balloons that challenge both gravity and imagination.
Today, some balloons reach up to 10 meters tall, featuring intricate designs that require skill, patience, and a little bit of magic to get airborne. Each launch brings a mix of suspense and delight: some balloons float triumphantly, while others ignite mid-air or tumble in flames, prompting a wave of laughter, applause, and wonder.
Campo Cruz Azul: The Heart of the Action
The regata is held at Campo Cruz Azul, a sports field located along Calle Revolución, just off Ajijic’s main road. From early afternoon, hundreds of people arrive with cameras, sun hats, and an eagerness to experience something unforgettable. The bleachers fill quickly, the field transforms into an open-air gallery, and balloon teams begin assembling their vibrant creations.
- The action typically begins between 2:00 and 3:00 PM.
- The event usually takes place the Saturday before September 15.
- Admission is free (donations are welcome at the entrance), and you’ll find plenty of food, drinks, and artisan crafts for sale.
- Teams such as Los Guzmán, El Rosario, and Naranja Mecánica are among the many returning participants.
A Multisensory Celebration
This isn’t just a visual festival—it’s a feast for all five senses. While the balloons climb the sky:
- Live music sets the mood with lively Mexican and Latin rhythms.
- Food stalls serve up everything from tacos al pastor to handmade ice cream.
- The scent of grilled corn and freshly fried churros drifts through the air.
- Children laugh, cameras click, and spontaneous cheers erupt across the crowd, creating a joyful, family-friendly atmosphere.
A Living Tradition That Keeps Growing
Over the years, the Balloon Regata has grown while staying true to its roots. Today, balloons are made with safer materials like paraffin instead of petroleum, and the event is supported by local safety authorities such as Protección Civil, the fire department, and the Red Cross. New generations join in, learning from seasoned veterans who proudly say: “We’re here to teach anyone who wants to learn.”
Tips for Enjoying the Balloon Regata in Ajijic
- Arrive early: the bleachers and best spots fill up quickly.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen: the September sun can be intense.
- Don’t forget your camera or phone: you’ll want to capture these moments.
- Stay alert: some balloons may fall while still aflame—follow safety announcements.
Ajijic’s Festive Season Kicks Off Here
The Balloon Regata doesn’t just stand alone—it kicks off Ajijic’s high season of cultural celebrations. From September through March, the town overflows with festivities, including:
- The Rebozo Parade: a celebration of Mexican identity through traditional shawls.
- Independence Day festivities, featuring parades and fireworks.
- The Fiestas Patronales of San Andrés: honoring Ajijic’s patron saint.
- Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead): a soulful tribute to loved ones who have passed.
- Ajijic’s Carnival: full of color, costumes, and satire.
Each celebration has its own character, but all reflect the close-knit community spirit that defines this lakeside village.
Want to Discover More Traditions?
Curious about the year-round celebrations that fill Ajijic with life? From colorful parades to ancestral dances, the town honors its roots with a vibrant, emotionally rich cultural calendar. If the Balloon Regata captured your heart, don’t miss our guide to other must-see local events in: Festivals and Traditions in Ajijic.
Stay at Hotel Casa Blanca Ajijic and Experience It All
Already dreaming of this unique experience? Join us at Hotel Casa Blanca Ajijic, located just minutes from Campo Cruz Azul—right in the heart of the action, yet surrounded by peace and comfort.
- Moroccan-inspired rooms with natural Mexican charm.
- Bilingual, personalized service that makes you feel at home.
- Special packages for extended stays or relaxing getaways.
Unwind on our rooftop terrace, sip your morning coffee in our courtyard, and get ready for an afternoon of color, joy, and unforgettable memories.
Ready to Experience the Magic?
The Ajijic Balloon Regata is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and passion. It’s one of those rare experiences you’ll talk about for years to come. And there’s no better way to enjoy it than from a boutique hotel filled with charm, comfort, and local warmth.
