The 37th edition of the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival (GHF) takes off at Parc de la Baie from August 29 to September 2. Here are five activities that caught our attention and that promise to please young and old alike.
Charlotte Cardin en spectacle
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Singer-songwriter Charlotte Cardin will kick off the festival. (File photo)
Photo: Radio-Canada / François Genest
Quebec singer Charlotte Cardin will take the stage this Thursday, August 29. With two albums to her credit, Phoenix et 99 Nights, and nearly 1.8 million monthly listeners on Spotify, she has a prominent place on the international music scene.
The performer of hits Confetti et Feel Good may well make the crowd sing at the top of their lungs with its lively pop, both refined and complex.
Or?
Loto-Quebec Scene
When?
Thursday, August 29, 9:15 p.m.
Hot air balloons take off in the early morning
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A hot air balloon flight will mark the weekend at dawn.
Photo: Dominic Charette Photographer
A colorful spectacle awaits festival-goers during the long weekend. From 6 a.m., head to the site to admire the gigantic balloons flying into the sky. Wacky characters, original designs, it doesn’t take much to add a little magic to a family morning.
Far from being an early riser? Night owls can choose to admire the hot air balloons during the night illuminations.
Please note that weather conditions may affect flight schedules.
When?
Morning flights: August 30 to September 2, from 6 a.m. (free)
Night illuminations: August 29 to September 1
Wrestling Gala
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Seven professional wrestling matches will be presented at the FMG.
Photo: Dominic Charette Photographer
For a third year in a row, Gatineau Professional Wrestling is organizing a gala that promises to be a real eye-opener. Professional athletes from the region will don their most menacing costumes and slip into the skin of characters to offer a show rich in emotion.
Action, suspense and combat are announced in the ring.
When?
August 31 and September 1, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Country and Latin dance classes
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Country dancing and bachata will be in the spotlight during the festival.
Photo : iStock / Wirestock
The instructors at Winslow Dancers will get country music fans moving from Thursday to Sunday. Just follow the steps of the line dancing professionals. A fun activity to do with friends to get out of your comfort zone and enter the uninhibited world of country dancing. Cowboy hat optional!
Latin music lovers are invited to shake their hips during some spicy dance lessons. Gatineau dancer and artist Krystelle Scrivener will teach the basics of bachata to anyone who wants to learn the rhythmic movements of this dance from the Dominican Republic.
Or?
Silent DJ Zone
When?
Country dancing: August 29 to September 1
Bachata: August 31 and September 1
Various hours
Immersive dance floor…in silence
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With headphones on, festival-goers will be able to select their favourite atmospheres mixed by two DJs.
Photo : iStock / Maria Korneeva
Music lovers and other fans of electronic music are invited to an activity that is, to say the least, original. Completely immersive, the silent DJ experience allows you to choose your music and the desired atmosphere using your headphones.
Or?
Silent DJ Zone
When?
August 30 and 31, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
