Hot Air Balloon Championships return to County Roscommon today
'The Flying Suitcase' balloon is capable of holding the equivalent volume of 25 double-decker buses. Pic: hotelindigobath
Thousands of people are expected to converge on Lough Key Forest Park in Boyle from today. September 19th to Friday, September 25th, for the 54th Irish Hot Air Balloon Championships.
Up to 10,000 people attended the spectacular event last year.
The much loved event will host the Irish debut of a massive, suitcase-shaped hot air balloon as part of an ambitious world record bid.
The balloon, capable of holding the equivalent volume of 25 double-decker buses, is preparing to launch over Roscommon skies as part of an official Guinness World Records attempt.
Nicknamed 'The Flying Suitcase', this 22-metre wide balloon was commissioned by Northern Ireland baggage shipping firm 'Send My Bag' to commemorate 20 years in business.
To help manage the large number of spectators anticipated at this year's event, a traffic management plan and pre-booked parking system will be in operation throughout the championships.
Visitors are advised that parking must be booked in advance through , with access to designated parking areas restricted to those holding a valid booking.
To further ease traffic pressures, a free shuttle bus service will also operate between Boyle and Lough Key Forest Park for all scheduled evening flights.
The shuttle buses will depart from the Abbeytown side of St Joseph's Church in Boyle, with the first service leaving at 3.30 pm.
Buses will run approximately every 20 minutes, subject to demand, while the final return service from Lough Key each evening will depart at 6.50 pm.
The shuttle service is limited and will operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Passengers are being advised to arrive early, as places cannot be guaranteed.
Visitors are also being reminded that all balloon launches are weather dependent and may be subject to change.
Further information and parking bookings are available .
