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: 2:30 pm to 11:30 pm.

Saturdays and Sundays: 12pm to 11:30pm.

Where will the festival take place?

The festival site will come to life on the Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu airport site. Access via boulevard Gouin.

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.

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.

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What tickets are currently available?

7-day passports at a great price!

What are the age categories for passes and tickets?

Adult (Regular): 13 years and over.

Youth: ages 5 to 12.

Children: 4 years and under. Admission is free for this category, but proof of age is required.

What type of passport can I get?

Integrated 7-day passport (limited quantities - 2,500 passports)

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 can I buy a day ticket?

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

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?

7-day presale access to rides: $60.00

7-day access to rides at the door: $65.00

1-day access to rides: $35.00

Single coupon: $2.00

14 coupons: $25.00

36 coupons: $45.00

*Taxes included.

Please note that pre-sale access to 7-day rides will soon be available on the Beauce Carnaval and can only be purchased there.

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

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 you have purchased your passport, a confirmation message will be sent to the e-mail address associated with your order. Your passport 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 you have purchased your passport, 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 passport.

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

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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Who are the headliners?

Nothing has been announced yet, but follow us on Instagram and Facebook to find out!

What's more, subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive offers and contests.

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.

How to access the festival site?

The festival site is located at 5 Chemin de l'Aéroport, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC J3B 7B5. Here is how to get there:  

Car

Parking available from Gouin Boulevard. Rate of $15.00/day (taxes and service charges included).

Public transportation from Montreal

Downtown terminus (Bonaventure metro) : Line 96, door 17 or 18

Transfer at St-Jean Terminus to the Hot Air Balloon Shuttle or the St-Jean Blue Line bus service

Public transportation from the South Shore

Panama (Brossard) Terminal: Line 96, platform No 15

Transfer at St-Jean Terminus to the Hot Air Balloon Shuttle or the St-Jean Blue Line bus service

Public transportation in Saint John

Watch for electronic variable message signs on Highway 10, Highway 30 and Highway 35 to keep you informed of traffic conditions as you approach the event site. Bike rack on the bus.

Bikes

Bicycle racks are located outside the site and near the pedestrian entrance. Bicycles are not allowed on the event 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.

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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.
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.

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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