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.
How Do You Steer a Hot Air Balloon Without a Wheel?
There's no steering wheel in a balloon basket. Learn how do you steer a hot air balloon using altitude, wind layers, and…
The Golden Age of Ballooning in the 1800s
Explore the history of ballooning in the 1800s, from celebrity aeronauts to Civil War observation balloons and the Siege of Paris.
Planning a Hot Air Balloon Wedding
Thinking about a hot air balloon wedding? Here's how to plan the flight, the ceremony, and the sunrise you'll remember forever.
Summer vs. Fall Ballooning in the Northeast
Wondering when to fly? Compare hot air balloon rides in summer with New England's crisp fall foliage flights to pick your perfect…
The First Balloon Crossing of the English Channel
The dramatic 1785 story of the first balloon across the English Channel, when Blanchard and Jeffries nearly fell short of the French…
New England Balloon Festivals Worth the Trip
Plan your next weekend around a New England balloon festival, from Quechee to Sunday River, with tips for first-time festival-goers.
The Wizard of Oz Balloon, Explained
The real story behind the Wizard of Oz hot air balloon, from its soundstage origins to why that farewell scene still hits…
Hot Air Balloons as Advertising: A Flying Billboard
Discover why hot air balloon advertising still turns heads, earns media coverage, and lifts brands into the sky at events and festivals.
Why Weather Cancels Balloon Flights
Why do hot air balloon rides get cancelled? It comes down to wind, not rain. Here's how pilots decide when it's safe…
How Long Does a Hot Air Balloon Ride Last?
Wondering how long is a hot air balloon ride? Here's what to expect from liftoff to landing, plus how to plan your…