Skies Full of Color: Magic at the Lough Key Hot Air Balloon Championships 23rd September
BOYLE, CO. ROSCOMMON — Visitors and aviation enthusiasts at Lough Key Forest and Activity Park were treated to an unforgettable spectacle yesterday, as the 54th Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships delivered a textbook evening launch under breathtaking blue skies and golden hour weather.
As the clock ticked toward the evening flight window, crystal-clear skies and gentle, rolling winds created dream conditions for the international fleet of pilots. Dozens of vibrant, intricately designed hot air balloons inflated across the park grounds, casting brilliant reflections over the mirror-calm waters of Lough Key.

Families, photographers, and local spectators lined the park to watch the multi-colored giants gracefully lift off above the historic tree canopy. Among the crowd favorites taking to the Roscommon skies was the eye-catching "Flying Suitcase" balloon—making a special appearance on its international world-record tour.
With favorable weather holding strong, the evening flight proved to be a major highlight of this year's championship week, showcasing County Roscommon at its absolute finest.
Photos by David Knight.