The Wicked Balloons Journal
Ballooning stories, history & how-tos
Everything about hot air ballooning — from the very first flight in 1783 to planning your own sunrise ride over New England.
Collecting Hot Air Balloon Pins and Memorabilia
Discover why collecting hot air balloon pins has become a beloved hobby for pilots, crews, and festival-goers alike.
How Weather Windows Work for Northeast Flights
How pilots read hot air balloon weather conditions in New England, why sunrise flights are safest, and what it means for your…
The Longest Hot Air Balloon Flights on Record
The hot air balloon distance record stands at 25,360 miles nonstop around the world. Discover the flights and pilots behind aviation's great…
Hot Air Balloon Rides Near Boston and Worcester
Searching for hot air balloon rides near me? Wicked Balloons flies sunrise flights out of Worcester, minutes from Boston.
Why the Balloon Became a Symbol of Adventure
Explore the history behind hot air balloon symbolism, from the first 1783 flight to its lasting role in film, advertising, and adventure.
The Engineering Behind a Giant Character Balloon
A look at the special shape balloon engineering behind giant character balloons, from load tapes and airflow to materials and build process.
9 Hot Air Balloon Myths, Debunked
We're busting the most common hot air balloon myths, from steering and safety to how landings really work.
Can Kids Go on Hot Air Balloon Rides?
Wondering about hot air balloon rides for kids? Here's what parents should know about age, height, and safety before booking a family…
How Pilots Read the Wind to Find Their Route
No steering wheel, no rudder: here's how do hot air balloons navigate by reading wind layers and altitude alone.
How Ballooning Survived the Age of the Airplane
Explore the history of hot air balloons from the Montgolfiers to the jet age and see why ballooning never went away.