The Cradle Balloon & Bubbly Fest lifts off this Women’s Day weekend, transforming the rolling grasslands of the Cradle of Humankind into a two-day celebration of adventure, music and bubbles. From Saturday 8 to Sunday 9 August 2026, WildWood Restaurant & Venue near Lanseria invites you to walk, sip and watch the skies glow with colour.
What to Expect at the Cradle Balloon & Bubbly Fest
Firstly, every ticket includes a scenic 5km nature walk through the bushveld of the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the sun sets, the festival’s hot air balloons light up in a mesmerising sunset “balloon glow”, while live music and entertainment keep the energy high. Moreover, you can upgrade your day with a relaxed brunch and a complimentary drink, or add three bubbly-tasting stops to toast the women in your life.
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flights Over Gauteng
For a truly unforgettable morning, the Sunday programme offers a sunrise flight — arguably the highlight of any hot air balloon festival in Gauteng. Because conditions stay calmest at dawn, you drift gently above the Cradle’s ridges and valleys before landing to a celebratory breakfast. Afterwards, you can still join the 5km walk and the evening festivities, which makes it a full day out. Please note that flights run on Sunday only, while Saturday focuses on the walk, food and festival experience.
Tickets and Packages
- Walk & Fest — R250: 5km walk, sunset balloon glow, music and entertainment
- Walk & Brunch — R450: the above plus brunch and a complimentary drink
- Walk & Bubbly Tasting — R650: the above plus three bubbly-tasting stops
- Fly & Fest (Sunday) — R2,980: sunrise balloon flight, breakfast and the full festival
- Fly & Brunch (Sunday) — R3,400: flight package with brunch and a drink
- Fly & Bubbly (Sunday) — R3,600: flight package with brunch and bubbly tastings
Plan Your Women’s Day Weekend
Whether you crave a sunrise flight or a relaxed walk with bubbly in hand, this festival delivers a memorable Women’s Day outing just outside Johannesburg. Book early, because the Sunday flight packages are limited and sell out quickly.
When: Saturday 8 – Sunday 9 August 2026 (from 07:00)
Where: WildWood Restaurant & Venue, Cradle of Humankind, Lanseria (West Rand)
Price: From R250 per person
Book tickets: WildWood — Cradle Balloon & Bubbly Fest — secure your package and see the full programme.
