© C. Labonté
Photo: Tourisme Outaouais
The Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival has finally unveiled its program! Considered the biggest summer event in the Outaouais region, the festival offers not one, but five days of shows, hot air balloon flights, and family activities at Parc de la Baie, from September 2 to 6. Will you be there? Whether you’re visiting the region or a resident of the Outaouais, we’ve gathered all the essential information to help you plan your visit and fully enjoy the event as well as the region’s attractions.
Photo: Camille Labonté
Are you ready to sing your favorite songs at the top of your lungs while admiring the many unique hot air balloons light up? Known for its diverse lineup featuring both international and local artists, the festival promises unforgettable evenings! Once again, this year, the FMG surprises us by welcoming renowned artists such as Simple Plan, Smash Mouth, Matt Lang, Fredz, and many others—some of whom will be announced later! Get your best dance moves ready, because the evenings promise to be lively!
Relive your teenage memories with Simple Plan and their biggest hits, like I’m Just a Kid, Welcome to My Life, and Jet Lag! Hailing from Montreal, this multi-platinum pop-punk band has made a name for itself on the international scene, with over 10 million albums sold. Their iconic melodies are sure to get the crowd fired up! Next up, the pop-rock band Smash Mouth will take you back in time with their greatest classics, loved and sung by generations. With millions of albums sold and even a GRAMMY nomination, you’re sure to recognize their iconic songs. Do you love country music? Don’t miss the show by the star of the moment, Matt Lang! This Canadian singer, a local native, rose to fame on the show La Voix Québec. Since then, he has performed in front of crowds of up to 80,000 people and amassed over 670 million streams! He has established himself as one of the leading figures in Canadian country music. You’ll also have the chance to see Fredz perform! Since his self-taught beginnings at age 15 and his first freestyles on social media, Fredz has made a name for himself with Le Stade and over 200 million streams, becoming a figure in Quebec pop-rap. His smooth, poetic flow, far from clichés, perfectly reflects his generation while captivating a wide audience around the world. Several other artists will take the stage during the festival. Check out the full lineup!
Bring the whole family! In addition to the many shows, don’t miss the Beauce Carnaval amusement park, with attractions for all ages and tastes. Kids will be spoiled for choice: running to the inflatable structures, getting their faces painted as their favorite characters, laughing at the kids’ shows, and participating in a multitude of activities. It’s the perfect spot for a wonderful summer evening with the family and leaving with plenty of memories! Look up to admire the show, as hot air balloon launches will take place around 6:30 a.m. from Thursday to Sunday and around 6:30 p.m. from Wednesday to Sunday. Do heights make you dizzy? Try the ORIZON experience, which lets you enjoy a virtual reality hot air balloon ride! Climb aboard the basket and learn to pilot your hot air balloon through different eras. The immersive experience is free.
5-day festival passes are currently available at the best price. Quantities are limited for each price tier. Buy your pass now and save. Buy your tickets here!
Photo: J. Deschatelets
To be right in the heart of the festivities, your best option is the FMG Campground. You’ll be within walking distance and won’t have to worry about parking! The campground welcomes tents, campervans, trailers, and motorhomes alike. Book early to get the best rate!
For accommodation options near the festivities, the Motel Adam, the Motel du Chevalier, the Motel Ritz, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Gatineau, the Comfort Inn Gatineau, the Quality Inn & Suites Gatineau-Ottawa, and the Hotel V are all within a 7-minute drive or a 30-minute walk. You can also stay in downtown Gatineau, which is just a short drive away. Stay at Suites Victoria, the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel & Conference Centre Gatineau-Ottawa, Le Central, or the Best Western PLUS Gatineau-Ottawa Hotel and Conference Centre.
Before heading to the festival, fuel up at a restaurant near the venue. Take a stroll along the beautiful Jacques-Cartier Street, right by the water, and stop for a bite to eat. For a breathtaking view of the river, head to À La Dérive Brasserie Artisanale, a microbrewery offering a comforting menu made with local ingredients. Settle in on the large terrace at Rest’O’Bord Le Pirate and discover a comforting menu with flavors inspired by the world of pirates. Craving something sweet? Stop by Café Fwanest, where you can enjoy artisanal gelato, Liège waffles, and delicious pastries.
Just a few minutes’ drive away is the restaurant Au Vieux Duluth, which offers a Greek-inspired menu and is known for its excellent value. You can even bring your own wine. For a trendy and friendly atmosphere, grab a table at Resto Bistro Rumeur. Enjoy a delicious meal, prepared with local ingredients, and treat yourself to a sophisticated cocktail. For dessert, sample the delights at Chocolat Favoris! Try their famous ice cream coating, available in 12 different flavors, to create the perfect cone just the way you like it.
For even more gourmet spots, head to the heart of downtown Gatineau!
Photo: Éric Martin
Make the most of your visit to explore or rediscover the region’s must-see attractions. If you’re a history buff, don’t miss the Canadian Museum of History, one of Canada’s most visited museums. Admire its unique architecture, designed by Indigenous architect Douglas Cardinal, and immerse yourself in over 15,000 years of history. Nature lovers will be delighted by Gatineau Park, a true playground with over 361 km² of hills and forests. Among the park’s many sites, the Mackenzie-King Estate and the Champlain Lookout are two of the most popular spots to enjoy the great outdoors.
On your way back, plan a visit to Omega Park! Enjoy a unique experience where you can drive along a 12-km route through the animals’ habitat. Have fun feeding the many deer that will approach your vehicle. You can also spend the night in one of their unusual accommodations with a view of the animals. Discover even more places worth visiting in the Outaouais!
The FMG’s reputation speaks for itself! Every evening promises to be memorable, with shows that will thrill young and old alike. Don’t forget to bring your reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the festival and fully enjoy all the activities and entertainment on site.
+
Has this made you want to extend your stay in the Outaouais? Check out our official tourist guide to plan your outings!
Passionate about the outdoors, good food, and always up for a new adventure, I travel across the Outaouais in search of its hidden gems. Let’s discover or rediscover the rare treasures of our beautiful region together.