Another exciting festival in Pampanga, that is really a crowd drawer, the LUBAO INTERNATIONAL BALLOON AND MUSIC FESTIVAL was successfully held in the wide fields of Pradera Verde in Lubao, Pampanga. Now running in its fourth year, the festival is gaining momentum in drawing crowds adding up its MUSICAL segment by integrating known celebrities and artist, with a much economical ticket price. Unlike the long-running hot air balloon festival in Clark, the location is further for about an hour or less from San Fernando NLEX exit, or from the Dinalupihan exit from SCTEX.
It is my first time to attend the Lubao Balloon festival, and thank you to Ms. Armela of aroundthemetro.ph, she requested Media Passes on our behalf the day we visited. I am also with my co-first timer Sir Marvin of emverphotos.info .
Immediately after we have our passes, we ran to field as the balloons are almost filled up and mostly are upright. I took snapshots near the balloons, and this time, focused on distant compositions to get most of the balloons in frame. But since my equipment is limited to an 18mm widest kit lens, I have to take separate shots and stitch them back home to create a panoramic shot. The challenge in the shots is the strong backlight, thank you for the rising sun. There were only a few whimsical and quirky shaped balloons on that day, mostly the traditional reverse tear drop shaped but colorful balloons, nonetheless, truly a sight to behold.
After a few moments, the balloon bearing LUBAO flew first. Few minutes then, the majority of the balloons started floating almost simultaneously, and that moment was seemingly magical and special. Unlike in Clark, that balloon pilots would fly should they be ready. As slowly drift following the current, I cannot help but pin my eyes on them, and slowly from massive balloons to almost pinpoint shapes in the sky. That short magical moment surely left a dent on my memory.
After we enjoyed our first LUBAO balloon flight cover, we met Director Ronnie Tiotuico of Department of Tourism-Region 3 at their booth. We observed the crowd as they participate in the activities kiosks of DOT. After, we roamed around the location and checked other booths and activities they offer. We left the event at past 9:00 AM as the heat of summer started dominating the field. I would be back in next year’s event.
How to go in Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival
Driving Directions:
NLEX Route – take the San Fernando Exit enroute Bataan along Olongapo-Gapan Road. The location is near the welcome arch of Bataan-Pampanga.
SCTEX Route – take the Dinalupihan Exit and turn left bound to San Fernando. The location is after the welcome arch.
Commute Directions: Take Bataan bounds buses via Olongapo Gapan Road and alight right beside the event area.
More Photographs:
YOurs was a great day with clear skies! Amazing experience=amazing photos!
Hi Sir Van, fortunately, thank you for the weather. I love how the balloons flew almost simultaneously, and I was in the field staring at them like a kid.
I bet you had better photos eheeheh