Frequently asked questions

Here are some answers to the questions we are most frequently asked.

If you don't find the answer to your question here, send us an email at festival@montgolfieres.com

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When will the festival take place?

The festival will be held from August 9 to 11 and August 15 to 18, 2024.

What are the opening hours of the site?

Thursdays and Fridays: 3pm to 11:30pm.

Saturdays and Sundays: 1pm to 11:30pm.

Where will the festival take place?

The festival takes place on the airport site in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu.

In case of bad weather, is the site open?

The site is open rain or shine. Please note that some activities, such as the inflatable games, will be temporarily cancelled. However, we're offering a host of other activities that you're sure to enjoy just as much!

In case of bad weather, what is your ticket discount policy?

Since 2022, there have been no ticket discounts or refunds in the event of flight cancellations. Please wear appropriate clothing.

How do I book a hot air balloon flight?

To book your flight, go directly to the ticket office.

Before taking any action, we recommend that you consult the Experience Ballooning page to make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria for a balloon flight.

Will there be flights only for the 7 days of the festival?

No. In all, there will be flights for the 10 days of the festival, from August 9 to 18.

I have booked a flight, but the weather conditions do not allow any departure, what happens to my balloon flight?

In the event of adverse weather conditions, you will have the option of postponing your flight or receiving a refund. In this case, you must be at the kiosk on time to reschedule your flight or receive a refund. For further information, please consult the Important info section.

In case of bad weather conditions, are the flights cancelled?

We take the safety of our festival-goers and our team to heart. Therefore, if the weather conditions are unfavorable, the flights will be cancelled. However, the site will remain open and it will still be possible to immerse yourself and live the ballooning experience! When in doubt, consult our social networks.

Can I work or volunteer for the festival?

Absolutely, we are always looking for dynamic people to join our team!  

For a job: Click here to discover your future position!  

If you'd like to volunteer, you'll soon have the opportunity to sign up. Stay tuned for details on the upcoming registration period.

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What types of passport can I buy?

Integrated 7-day passport (quantities sold out)‍

Gives access to the site, all shows and rides, and includes parking (adults only) for the duration of the festival.

7-day passport‍

Gives access to the site and all shows for the duration of the festival.

When will daily tickets be available?

Daily tickets are now available for Saturday, August 17, 2024. Visit the box office to find out who will be on stage that evening 👀

What tickets are currently available?

All passports, tickets and access are available!

Click here to go to the ticketing page.

What are the age categories for passes and tickets?

Regular: 13 years and over.

Youth: ages 5 to 12.

Children: Children aged 4 and under. Access to the site is free, but proof of age is required.

How do I get my one-day deck experience?

Here's how to enjoy a day in the Terrace area:

You already have your daily ticket or 7-day passport?

Log in to your Ticketmaster account to purchase your deck experience.

Don't have your daily ticket or 7-day passport?

Once on TicketMaster, select your product;

The option to add the deck experience to your order will be offered as a second step.

What type of passport can I get?

Regular passport‍

Gives access to the site and all shows for the duration of the festival.

For ages 13 and up

Youth Passport

Gives access to the site and all shows for the duration of the festival.

For ages 5 to 12.

Child passport

Free admission. Gives access to the site and all shows for the duration of the festival.

For ages 4 and under. You don't need a ticket for your child. All you need is proof of age.

When can I buy a day ticket?

As soon as a headliner is announced, and when the full program is unveiled in spring 2024.

What type of daily ticket can I get?

Regular: For people 13 years and older.

Youth: For people between 5 and 12 years old.

Where can I buy my festival passes?

On our website, in the ticketing section.

Please note that before the festival begins, there are no physical sales outlets. Also, our offices are not open to the public.

What are the prices for the rides?

Access to the rides is exclusively available for purchase on the official Beauce Carnaval website. Here you'll find all available prices.

Please note that a daily ticket or passport is required for access to the festival site.

How much are the tickets at the door?

Pricing for 2024 will be announced shortly.

I don't have a credit card. How do I get my passes?

You can purchase a prepaid credit card online.

Do passports and tickets include all shows?

Yes, and more! They give access to the site, most activities and all festival shows.

Please note that daily tickets only give you access to the site for the date indicated on the ticket.

How will I receive my passes?

Integrated passports 

They will be sent by post*. 

*Please note that shipping and handling fees will be automatically added to your shopping cart at the end of the transaction. Once your passport has been purchased, a confirmation message will be sent to the e-mail address associated with your order. Your integrated passport will then be sent to you in the summer of 2024.

7-day passports & daily tickets

You can choose between the mobile version or the paper version, which will be sent by post. 

You will need to select your option before proceeding to payment. Please note that once you have made your choice, you will not be able to change the delivery method. 

Paper - by post

Once your pass has been purchased, a confirmation message will be sent to the e-mail address associated with your order. Your pass will then be sent to you in the summer of 2024.

*Please note that shipping and handling fees will be automatically added to your shopping cart at the end of the transaction.

Mobile

Once your pass has been purchased, a confirmation message will be sent to the e-mail address associated with your order. Follow the instructions in the e-mail to access your pass.

If you are having difficulty, contact us at festival@montgolfieres.com

Can I transfer my passes to someone else?

Daily tickets: Yes, you can transfer them as many times as you like, until you have activated them on the festival website.

7-day passports (integrated or regular): Yes, you can transfer them as many times as you like, until noon on August 9. After that time, they belong to you and can no longer be transferred.

How do I transfer my passes to someone else?

1-Download the TicketMaster application on your cell phone

Open the TicketMaster application and log in to your account. If you don't already have an account, register.

Go to the My Events section and select the event for which you wish to view your tickets.

Click on Transfer. * If the button is grayed out, it means that the tickets cannot be transferred. Select the tickets you wish to transfer, and click Transfer to . Enter the recipient's information, including phone number and email address, and an optional comment.

TIP: If a cell phone number is entered, the link to claim the ticket will be sent via text message. All you have to do is click on Send! If an email address is entered, the link to claim the ticket will be sent by email.

Click Transfer Ticket. Your transferred tickets will be marked as "Sent". Once the recipient has accepted the tickets, you will see "Accepted". You will receive an email confirming that the ticket has been accepted by the recipient. After a successful transfer, the ticket can no longer be used in your account to access the event.

2- Transfer from a computer Log in to your TicketMaster account.

Find your event by clicking on your name at the top right of the page and then selecting My Tickets.

Find your event and click on View Details.

NOTE: If the Transfer Tickets button is grayed out, it means that tickets cannot be transferred.

Select the tickets you wish to transfer and click Continue.

Enter the recipient's information, including email address and a comment (optional).

Click on Send.

Does the person to whom the passes are transferred need to have a TicketMaster account?

Yes, and it only takes a few seconds to create the account. If the person already has an account, be sure to use the email address associated with their Ticketmaster account. This will make it even easier for the recipient to accept the tickets.

How does pass transfer work?

When you transfer a ticket, the recipient who receives it must accept it on the TicketMaster application. Once accepted, TicketMaster sends them a new barcode to activate their tickets.

How do we know if the passes have been accepted?

Once you've sent the tickets, you'll see one of two statuses: "Pending" means that the recipient has not yet accepted the forwarded tickets, so you can remind them to check their email and text messages for the invitation; "Accepted by" means that the tickets have been forwarded.

Can I transfer a parking ticket purchased for the festival?

No, parking tickets are not transferable. To find out which items are eligible for transfer, check your order in your online account. If the Transfer button appears, you can transfer this item to another person. If the button is grayed out, you cannot transfer this item.

Can I transfer a terrace access purchased for the festival?

No, terrace access is not transferable. To find out which items are eligible for transfer, check your order in your online account. If the Transfer button appears, you can transfer this item to another person. If the button is grayed out, you cannot transfer this item.

Can I transfer previously transferred passes?

Yes, once you accept the passes, you can dispose of them as you wish. If you are unable to attend the event, transfer them to the sender or the person of your choice. Please note that for daily tickets, as soon as you activate them, they can no longer be transferred. The same applies to passports: after noon on August 9, they can no longer be transferred.

My ticket says 8:00 pm. Do I still have access to the site during the day?

Absolutely! The time indicated on your ticket is the approximate time when the shows are due to start on the Main Stage. You still have access to the festival site from the moment it opens until it closes.

On my ticket it says section/ranged and seat? What does that mean?

It doesn't mean anything (unfortunately, it's not the secret code of our chocolate cupboard). On the site, you are free to go wherever you want.

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When will the full show schedule be announced?

The schedule will be announced a few weeks before the event. Stay tuned via our newsletter and social networks!

Who are the headliners?

You can now consult the programming section to discover the artists who will be with us for the 2024 edition.

If an artist cancels for any reason, will I receive a refund?

No. All performances at the festival are subject to change or cancellation without notice.

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Is the festival an all-ages event?

Yes, our programming is for people of all ages. Shows, massive hot air balloon flights, rides, inflatable games, activities, a gourmet offer and many other things to see and do. There's something for everyone, whether they're enjoying the festivities with friends or family!

Is the festival accessible to people with reduced mobility?

Yes, we offer a user-friendly event for everyone. There are parking spaces for people with reduced mobility, as well as a platform for the shows. To get there, simply follow the signs. 

Each person in a wheelchair will be entitled to one (1) companion with free access to the site and to the dedicated platform near the stage, by submitting their access card (e.g. CAL).

Each person requiring assistance will be entitled to one (1) attendant with free access to the site, by submitting their access card (e.g. CAL).

Are animals allowed on the site?

No. Although we would love to pet your pitoos, no animals are allowed on site. Of course, guide dogs are an exception.

What is not allowed on the festival site?

On the site, it is forbidden to have:

  • pets (except guide dogs);
  • glass bottles or containers;
  • alcoholic beverages
  • cigarettes
  • drug
  • a bicycle
  • a skateboard
  • barefoot
What types of facilities and services can I find on site?

Our site offers a variety of services on the entire site: fine dining stations, refreshment areas, relaxation areas and more! Facilities for maintaining the cleanliness of the site (garbage and recycling garbage cans) are also present on site.

Can we bring chairs?

Yes, folding chairs are allowed.

Is it allowed to bring food to the festival site?

Yes, a landscaped area with tables and shade will allow you to make the most of your meal. In addition, a gourmet alley will be waiting for you on site!

Can I bring in alcoholic beverages from outside?

No, we have everything you need! Personal alcoholic beverages are therefore prohibited.

Cannabis Regulation

In accordance with the law, it is strictly forbidden to consume any form of cannabis on the entire festival site.

For more details, you can consult this link.

Are there any hotels nearby?

Yes, click here to learn more about accommodation options in the area. 

Are there any campgrounds nearby?

Yes, click here to learn more about accommodation options in the area.

In addition, we are currently working on the project to provide our festival-goers with a camping and accommodation area. We look forward to sharing all the details and specifications with you this spring on our social networks and website. 

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How many people can fit in a hot-air balloon?

The hot-air balloons that fly during the festival generally accommodate between 2 and 4 people.

For groups of more than 4 people, you will be divided into sub-groups.

What does my flight reservation include?

Your ticket includes not only your balloon flight, but also access to the festival site for the day of your flight.

If I buy an a.m. flight, do I need to buy a parking space?

No, you can take advantage of free parking on the festival site for your a.m. flight. However, if you're planning to stay for the day to enjoy the shows and activities, you'll need to purchase access to parking through our ticket office.

How do I book a flight for several people?

You must make a single transaction that includes all passengers in your group. Please note that we cannot guarantee that you will all be assigned together, so you may be divided* into sub-groups**.

Note that the hot-air balloons that fly at the festival can generally accommodate between 2 and 4 passengers.

*There are many reasons for separating a group, including heat and passenger weight.

**In the event of separation, children 14 and under will be grouped with an adult.

Is there a minimum age to participate in a flight?

No. However, there are four criteria that must be met:

  • The passenger must be at least 1.2 metres (4 feet) tall;
  • The passenger must be able to stand upright throughout the flight (without assistance);
  • Passengers must be able to get in and out of the basket on their own (average basket height = 3.5 feet).
  • Passengers aged 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Are there any medical restrictions for passengers?

Yes. For safety reasons, please note that :                                                                                          

  • Passengers suffering from back pain, heart ailments, less than 1.2 meters (4 feet) tall, pregnant women (or women who believe they may be pregnant) and passengers under the influence of drugs or alcohol will not be admitted to the flight.
  • Ballooning can aggravate a previous injury.
  • If you've had joint replacement surgery, consult your doctor and mention it to the pilot.
  • If you suffer from allergies or a serious medical condition, tell the pilot. Make sure you're prepared for any eventuality (bring your medication: EpiPen, insulin, etc.);
  • If you need to take medication at a fixed time, it's a good idea to have it with you, as flight times can vary.

Note: If you suffer from a medical condition or have any questions about your abilities, please consult your doctor and inform the balloon pilot.

Are there any other elements to consider?
  • Children 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Passengers must be in good physical condition:
  • Easily climb in and out of the basket on their own, hold onto something without assistance and remain upright throughout the flight;
  • Use the step on the side of the carrycot to step over its edge;
  • Take the shock on landing. This is the equivalent of a jump from a kitchen chair. Sometimes it can be a little more abrupt, so it's important to take this into consideration;
  • Be able to walk on uneven terrain.
Where should we go?

At the Passenger Kiosk, located on the festival site. 

As your flight approaches, an e-mail will be sent to you with all the information you need to know about your arrival at the festival.

How do you get into a hot-air balloon?

Hot-air balloon gondolas are equipped with either a door or a step allowing passengers to climb inside. As it's impossible to choose your balloon, all passengers must be able to use the footboard to step over the edge of the basket (average basket height = 3.5 feet).

What clothes should I wear?

The important thing is to be comfortable. As it's often cooler at higher altitudes and you'll be landing on farmland, remember to bring long clothes that will keep you warm and protect you from mosquitoes. With a pair of comfortable shoes, you'll be ready for your adventure!

Can we bring a video or still camera?

Of course! We strongly encourage you to bring a camera so you can capture this magical moment.

Please note that neither we nor the driver and his team can be held responsible for any lost or dropped items.

Is there somewhere to leave personal belongings?

No, you need to make sure you only carry what you need for your flight.

Where do we land?

Usually, the landing takes place in a field close to a road or path to facilitate recovery of the balloon. That said, since the strength and direction of the wind have a major influence on a hot-air balloon's route, each departure leads to a different destination.

How do you come back from the flight?

Thanks to tracking teams. One team follows the balloon from the moment it leaves and stays in communication with the pilot throughout the flight. On landing, they help the pilot repack the envelope and return the equipment to the trailer. Everyone then returns to the starting point in the pursuit vehicle. 

 

To make the most of your hot-air ballooning experience, you can help the pilot and his team repatriate all the equipment. However, please make sure you have the pilot's permission!

Are there any documents to sign?

Before departure, you will be asked to sign a liability waiver form, which releases International Balloon Club and the pilot from all liability. Please bear in mind that flying is an activity with inherent risk.

What happens if our flight is cancelled?

Your balloon flight may be rescheduled during the festival or refunded. However, you must go to the ballooning box office to schedule a discount or receive a refund.

If I just want to participate in a flight, but do not want to attend the shows, is it the same price?

Yes, the price remains the same.

What are the unfavorable conditions for a flight?

No or too strong winds (more than 12 km/h), rain and thunderstorm cells within a 50 km radius are unfavorable conditions for take-off. 

Sometimes the conditions do not seem favorable during the hours preceding the flight and the flight still takes place. The opposite is also likely. Flight directors (balloonmeisters) analyze the weather conditions before each flight, in order to give their authorization. 

Please note that a late take-off time may affect the duration of the flight. Depending on the decision of the balloonmeisters, each pilot is responsible for his flight and can decide to fly or not, depending on the conditions.

How long does a flight last?

We cannot guarantee the exact duration of the flight, as it depends on the weather conditions at the time of take-off. However, a flight lasts approximately 1 hour. As a passenger, you should allow 3 to 4 hours for the total duration of the activity, which includes meeting the pilot, setting up the equipment and inflating, the flight, landing, packing up the equipment and returning to the departure point.

Why do the flights take place in the early morning or late afternoon?

Hot air balloons can fly because warm air is lighter than cold air. On summer days, when the sun warms the earth, a phenomenon occurs that creates hotter or cooler zones and wind vortices that represent a risk for hot-air balloons. By flying very early in the morning and at the end of the day, the earth is sufficiently cold and thermal phenomena are practically absent, which allows us to fly safely.

How high does a hot air balloon fly?

A hot air balloon flies on average around 2 to 3000 feet of altitude, but may sometimes have to go to more than 6000 feet to find a wind with a more favorable direction and speed. It is also possible to fly at less than 1000 feet, or even at the top of the trees of a forest, to give a totally different view of the landscape.

Is it possible to direct a hot air balloon?

The short version is that it is impossible to steer a hot air balloon.

The long version is that a pilot is able, in some way, to steer his balloon according to the altitude and the winds.

What is the temperature during a flight?

Approximately, we lose 2 degrees Celsius for every 1,000 feet of altitude. So if it is 20 degrees Celsius on the ground, it will be about 18 degrees Celsius at 1,000 feet, and so on. Also, since the balloon is moving at the same speed as the wind, you will hardly feel the wind factor during the flight.

Is it possible to choose your balloon?

No, however, we ask passengers to specify on the reservation form the languages that are understood and spoken, in order to facilitate the assignment to a pilot.

Need more information?

Contact us for more information!

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