Montgolfiades de Metz
The grand gathering of hot air balloons at the Metz water body
About Montgolfiades de Metz
The Montgolfiades de Metz are an annual aerostatic gathering organized by the Association des Pilotes de Montgolfières de Moselle (APIMM) in collaboration with the City of Metz. Every September, the Metz water body becomes the stage for mass ascents of colorful hot air balloons, offering a striking visual spectacle to the approximately 10,000 visitors who flock to its banks. Take-offs at dawn and late afternoon, ground activities for families, and technical demonstrations make this free event one of the most popular aerostatic gatherings in France.
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The Montgolfiades: Metz's sky in color
Every September, the Metz water body hosts the Montgolfiades, a hot air balloon gathering that colors the Metz sky for several days. Organized by the Association des Pilotes de Montgolfières de Moselle (APIMM) in partnership with the City of Metz, this event has become one of the most anticipated events of the back-to-school season.
Spectacular Ascents
The Montgolfiades program revolves around mass ascents of hot air balloons, which are the highlight of the show:
- Evening ascents: every day around 6:30 PM, when weather conditions permit
- Morning ascents: on weekends at 6:30 AM, at sunrise, for flights in the golden light of dawn
- Night glow: nighttime illumination of hot air balloons on the ground, creating a magical spectacle
Take-offs and flights are entirely dependent on weather conditions (wind, rain, visibility), which gives each ascent a unique and precious character.
A Free and Family-Friendly Event
The Montgolfiades are free and open to all. Families flock to the banks of the water body to admire the inflation of the envelopes, the pilots' preparations, and the majestic ascents of the balloons over the city. Ground activities complete the program: information stands on aerostation, technical demonstrations, and meetings with pilots.
Metz, cradle of aerostation
The Montgolfiades de Metz are part of a strong aerostatic tradition in Lorraine. The region also hosts the Mondial Air Ballons in Chambley, the largest international hot air balloon gathering in the world. The Montgolfiades offer a more intimate and urban event, right in the heart of Metz, with the water body as a natural backdrop.
An Exceptional Urban Setting
The Metz water body, a vast 25-hectare lake south of the city, offers an ideal setting for this event. Spectators can enjoy the landscaped green spaces, walks along the banks, and the panoramic view of the hot air balloons rising above the silhouette of Metz and its cathedral.
Montgolfiades de Metz — edition 2026
Montgolfiades de Metz 2026, scheduled for September at the Metz water body. Hot air balloon ascents, ground activities, and free spectacle.
Montgolfiades 2026
The Montgolfiades de Metz return in September 2026 at the Metz water body. Mass hot air balloon ascents, ground activities, and meetings with pilots will be on the program for this new edition. Exact dates and the full program will be announced in the summer of 2026.
Highlights Montgolfiades de Metz 2026
- Montgolfiades in September 2026
- Ascents at the Metz water body
- Free and family-friendly spectacle
Prices Montgolfiades de Metz 2026
Practical information — Montgolfiades de Metz
Access
Location
Metz water body, accessible from Boulevard de Trèves and Avenue de Blida, 57000 Metz. Hot air balloon ascents take place from the banks of the water body.
By car
Access via the A31, exit Metz-Centre or Metz-Sud. Free parking near the water body, along Boulevard de Trèves. During peak periods, additional parking may be opened.
By public transport
Le Met' network: several bus lines serve the water body. Take Mettis line A or B to a central stop, then transfer to a bus. Schedule information on lemet.fr.
By train
Metz-Ville station (TGV from Paris in 1h25). The water body is about a 25-minute walk from the station or accessible by bus.
By bike
The water body is connected to the city center by dedicated cycle paths. Mettis'Vélo self-service bike stations nearby.
Ascent Schedule
- Evening ascents: around 6:30 PM (every day, weather permitting)
- Morning ascents: around 6:30 AM on weekends
Important: all flights are entirely subject to weather conditions (wind, rain, visibility) and may be canceled or postponed at any time. Check APIMM's social media for real-time updates.
Prices
Completely free access. Ascents, activities, and demonstrations are accessible to all without reservation.
Accessibility
The banks of the water body are accessible to people with reduced mobility. The paved paths allow for wheelchair circulation.
Practical Tips
- Arrival: arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled ascent time to enjoy the inflation of the balloons and the pilots' preparations
- Morning ascents: bring warm clothing for dawn ascents in September
- Photography: the spectacle of hot air balloons over the water body and the cathedral is particularly photogenic at sunrise and sunset
- Children: ideal event for families, children love the inflation of the envelopes
- Picnic: the banks of the water body are perfect for picnics while waiting for the ascents
Contact
APIMM (Association des Pilotes de Montgolfières de Moselle)
Facebook: APIMM57
Website: apimm.eu
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Where does it take place — Montgolfiades de Metz
Plan d'eau de Metz
Plan d'eau de Metz, 57000 Metz