Doha: The Qatar Balloon Festival will begin today at the Old Doha Port on the Corniche, creating a colorful spectacle in the sky. The venue is the grounds behind the Grand Terminal. Highlights of the 10-day fair include a display of 50 hot air balloons and giant kites to light up the sky in the afternoons and nights.
Live music shows and entertainment shows are also arranged for the visitors. Food trucks will also be active with delicious dishes. Huge hot air balloons of different designs are on display. There is also a separate game zone for all age groups with different types of games like carnival, football darts, virtual reality, electronic etc.
About five thousand visitors are expected daily. Events are held daily from 4 pm to 9 pm. Children’s entertainment programs and food kiosks will be open till 11 pm. You can also take a 30-45 minute aerial ride in a hot air balloon for 499 Riyals. This service will be available till March. For this you have to book on the website https://qatarballoonfestival.com/.
Let’s get to the venue
You can reach the Balloon Mela venue by bus number 831 of Karva. Opera bus stop is just a short walk away. If you are coming by Doha Metro, you will have to walk for about half an hour after getting off at Souq Waqif Metro Station on the Gold Line. Curva Taxi and ride-sharing are also available to reach the venue. It is a 23-minute walk from Box Park. Those arriving by private vehicles can avail free parking at the port.
