Experience the Magic of the Regata de Globos in Ajijic, Jalisco
- Lakeside Lista
- Aug 20
- 4 min read
The Regata de Globos is a unique event that fills the sky over the local soccer field with hundreds of colorful hot-air balloons made entirely by hand. The celebration brings together families, artist collectives, and neighborhood teams to create and launch globos de cantoya, traditional tissue-paper balloons that light up the evening with vibrant colors and intricate designs.
Ajijic, Jalisco: Culture. Community. Wonder.
The Regata de Globos isn't just a festival; it's a hands-on tradition where people get to make their own hot-air balloons using simple stuff like tissue paper, tape, and a homemade paste of flour and water. These balloons come in all sorts of sizes and shapes. Some are tiny lanterns that gently float up, while others are huge, multi-story figures or complex geometric designs that show off some serious talent.
This event is deeply rooted in community involvement. Local families work side by side with artist groups and neighborhood teams, sharing skills and stories as they prepare their globos. The process of building these balloons is as much a part of the event as the launch itself, offering a chance to witness creativity and teamwork in action.
Details
Mark your calendar for Saturday, September 12, 2026. The event takes place at Campo Deportivo Cruz Azul, the local soccer field on Calle Revolución in Ajijic. This accessible location is well-known among Ajijic, Jalisco residents and visitors alike, making it easy to find and enjoy.
The launches usually start between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM and continue throughout the afternoon and evening until about 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This schedule allows you to experience the balloons in daylight and watch them glow as the sun sets, creating a magical atmosphere.
Admission to the event is free, but a small voluntary donation is collected at the entrance. These contributions help cover the cost of materials for future events, supporting the continuation of this beloved tradition.
What to Expect
Visitors to the Regata de Globos can expect a lively and colorful scene filled with:
Hundreds of handcrafted balloons in all shapes and sizes, from simple lanterns to elaborate characters.
A family-friendly festive atmosphere where locals and visitors mingle, share stories, and enjoy the creativity.
Live music and food stalls offering local flavors and specialties.
Opportunities to learn about the traditional techniques used to build the globos, often with demonstrations by experienced artisans.
A spectacular launch as the balloons rise into the sky, glowing softly against the evening backdrop.
The Tradition: Originating in the 1960s, local teams spend weeks designing and constructing these massive paper balloons. Local businesses and families sponsor individual teams, often affixing logos or names to the sides of the balloons.
The Atmosphere: Spectators gather on the field with lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and umbrellas. Food stalls and refreshment vendors surround the field, serving local snacks, tacos, and drinks throughout the day.
Spectacle & Suspense: Because the balloons rely on a small open flame/fuel pack attached to the base, launching them requires precise coordination. Much of the excitement comes from watching whether each balloon successfully rises into the sky or catches flame during takeoff.
⚽ Location: Campo Deportivo Cruz Azul, the local soccer field located on Calle Revolución in Ajijic
Tips for Attendees
Seating & Shade: Bring an umbrella or hat for the early afternoon sun, as shade is limited until evening.
Footwear: Wear flat, comfortable shoes or boots, as the soccer field can be grassy or muddy depending on recent rain.
Safety: Keep a reasonable distance from active launch crews on the pitch, especially when a balloon catches fire or descends unexpectedly.
Parking Strategy
Navigating street traffic and parking on the day of the regatta requires some advance planning, as thousands of spectators gather near Campo Deportivo Cruz Azul Click to open side panel for more information .
On-Street Neighborhood Parking: Parking directly on Calle Revolución or near the immediate perimeter of the field fills up rapidly by noon. Look for street parking slightly east in the residential neighborhood of Camino Real 47 Fracc La Floresta or along side streets north of the Carretera. The wide, tree-lined streets in La Floresta offer easier street parking and a short, flat walking distance to the pitch.
Commercial Lot Options: You can park near Plaza Bugambílías or nearby commercial plazas along the main highway (Carretera Obregón/Jocotepec) and walk down to Calle Revolución. Paid public lots located toward the Ajijic village center (such as near 16 de Septiembre) are also workable, though they require a 10–15 minute walk.
Alternative Transit: Because traffic bottlenecking is common near the entrance after 2:00 PM, taking a local camión (bus) or a taxi and dropping off a few blocks away along the Carretera is often much easier than driving right up to the venue.
Best Vantage Points Around the Field
The Covered Bleachers: Positioned along the side of the field, the grandstands offer elevated seating and protection from the afternoon sun. These spots fill up hours in advance, so arrive early if you want a bench seat with shade.
Mid-Field Perimeter (Bring Lawn Chairs): Standing or placing lawn chairs along the sidelines of the grass field puts you directly in the middle of the action. This lets you watch teams assemble, inflate, and light the paper balloons up close before takeoff.
Rooftops & Elevated Miradores: Private rooftop terraces and neighboring buildings around Calle Revolución offer panoramic views of the launches against the backdrop of Lake Chapala and the surrounding mountains.
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