Hot air balloon history begins in 1783 in Annonay, France, when the Montgolfier brothers launched the first successful flights, soon followed by animal passengers and the first human ascent over Paris. Around the same era, hydrogen balloons enabled longer journeys and expanded ballooning into public spectacle, scientific discovery, and military observation. Over the next two centuries, ballooning evolved from experiment and entertainment into adventure, aviation innovation, and modern sport, culminating in iconic traditions like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
Start here, then explore each era below to see how ballooning shaped science, culture, and exploration.