Tourism Minister Launches Birr Hot-Air Balloon Festival

Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport Ms. Mary Hanafin, T.D. has launched the Birr International Hot-Air Balloon Festival in Birr Castle Demesne. The four day festival is sponsored by Shannon Development.

From Thursday May 27- Sunday May 30, over 20 balloons will take-off from Birr Castle Demesne each morning and evening, weather permitting. The Castle grounds will remain open for the balloon festival from 6.00 p.m. each evening, with balloons taking-off from 6.30 p.m. onwards.

Speaking at the launch in Birr Castle Demesne, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport, Ms. Mary Hanafin, T.D. said “I am delighted to officially launch the 2010 Birr International Hot Air Balloon Festival. Festivals and events are crucial in attracting visitors particularly from overseas. It is a testament to the organisers, Meitheal Bhiorra that so many overseas balloonists have travelled to participate in the Festival. I’d like to compliment Shannon Development – without the encouragement and support of the regional tourism body this festival could not have taken place.”

The organizers have arranged a host of family friendly activities to entertain both young and old alike. From face-painting to balloon animal making, there is something that will appeal to all.

Bernie Leonard, Tourism Officer with Shannon Development said “Shannon Development is delighted to support the Birr International Hot Air Balloon Festival organised by Meitheal Bhiorra. The Festival attracts balloonists from the Ireland, UK, Continental Europe and the United States. The Birr International Balloon Festival is one of several festivals and events that Shannon Development is trying to grow into larger festivals in the Region.”

Joe Leahy, President of the Irish Ballooning Association, who is organizing the festival for Meitheal Bhiorra said “We are delighted to be back again in Birr for the 2010 Birr International Hot Air Balloon Festival. Birr Castle Demesne and the Georgian town of Birr is a fantastic location for balloon flying. This year we have added to the entertainment and family friendly activities in grounds of Birr Castle Demesne. Watching the hot air balloons set up and float away across the sky is a dramatic spectacular and well worth visiting.”

The Birr International Hot Air Balloon Festival also receives support from Birr Town Council, Birr Castle Demesne, and Birr Chamber of Commerce.

In 2009, Meitheal Bhiorra organized the Birr International Hot Air Balloon Festival. Over 18 balloons took off from Birr each day of the festival. The Festival was one of the longest in Irish balloon aviation history. Meitheal Bhiorra is a collaborative group set up in 2007 to promote Birr as a top quality tourism destination.

Admission to the Birr Castle Demesne for the balloon take-off is €2 per adult with children free.