Hot Air Balloon Festival Returns to Gaza Envelope Skies After Three Years

After a three-year hiatus, the colorful hot air balloons will once again fill the skies of the Gaza envelope region this Friday. The festival will take place at the Be'ersheva National Park (Eshkol Park), near the destroyed Khan Yunis area adjacent to the Gaza Strip. Amir Shamer, 40, owner of SkyTrek in the Gilboa region and a hot air balloon pilot for 20 years, leads the flights. Shamer began flying balloons in 2007 in Utah and opened his company in Israel in 2012. He describes ballooning as a peaceful, magical experience, distinct from extreme sports, with flights typically lasting about an hour and reaching heights of approximately 35 meters.

The festival's return is symbolic, aiming to restore joy and hope to an area deeply affected by the October 7 massacre and subsequent military operations. The park served as an IDF staging ground during the conflict and has since undergone extensive rehabilitation to welcome visitors again. Shamer notes the surreal experience of flying near active conflict zones, witnessing smoke plumes from Gaza while in the air.

Although all balloon flight spots are sold out, the event offers a vibrant public spectacle with music, fire shows, and lighting displays organized by the Shikma Bashor Tourism Association in cooperation with the Jewish National Fund, Ministry of Tourism, and Ministry of Agriculture. Visitors are invited to camp overnight and watch the balloons inflate and ascend at dawn. Tickets cost 179 shekels and can be purchased through the association's website. The festival's revival underscores a commitment to reviving tourism and cultural life in the region.