This weekend, visitors to Santiago’s Parque Estadio Nacional will have the opportunity to experience free hot air balloon rides as part of the Carnaval Mayor de Sernatur 2026 event. The activity, organized by Chile’s National Tourism Service (Sernatur), is being offered to the public on Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19, 2026, as part of a broader celebration marking the 25th anniversary of the Vacaciones Tercera Edad program.
The hot air balloon rides will be conducted as captive flights, meaning the balloons are tethered to the ground and rise and lower vertically rather than traveling long distances. According to official event details, two balloons will be available each day, each with a capacity for up to 75 passengers, allowing a total of 150 people per day to participate in the experience. Access to the rides will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis, with bracelets distributed at the entrance on Avenida Grecia starting at 9:00 a.m. Each morning.
The Carnaval Mayor de Sernatur is a family-friendly, free-admission event designed to promote domestic tourism and highlight Sernatur’s various travel subsidy programs, including Vacaciones Tercera Edad, Gira de Estudio, Turismo Familiar, and Turismo Mujer. In addition to the balloon rides, the event will feature live music performances, cultural shows, gastronomic offerings, entrepreneurial fairs, and informational booths where attendees can learn how to access subsidized travel opportunities across Chile.
Artists scheduled to perform include national acts such as Sinergia Kids, Tomo como Rey, Juan Antonio Labra, Caporales Gran Poder, and Bafoda, along with a Michael Jackson impersonator. The event will run from 10:00 a.m. To 7:00 p.m. Both days, with morning activities beginning earlier to accommodate the balloon flight schedule.
Located in the Ñuñoa commune of Santiago, Parque Estadio Nacional is accessible via the Estadio Nacional metro station or various Red bus routes. Organizers emphasize that no invitation or prior registration is required to attend, reinforcing the event’s open and inclusive nature.
The celebration serves not only as a recreational opportunity but also as a platform to raise awareness about Sernatur’s initiatives aimed at promoting travel among seniors, families, students, and women, particularly during off-peak tourism seasons. By combining leisure activities with practical information, the event seeks to encourage broader participation in Chile’s domestic travel programs.
As one of the flagship annual events hosted by Sernatur, the Carnaval Mayor continues to grow in scale and significance. This year’s two-day format marks an expansion from previous single-day editions, reflecting the program’s ongoing success and public demand for accessible, culturally rich experiences.
For the most current updates on schedules, accessibility information, or any changes to the event program, members of the public are encouraged to consult Sernatur’s official website or its Vacaciones Tercera Edad portal. These platforms provide verified details about eligibility for travel subsidies, upcoming destinations, and how to enroll in supported tourism initiatives.
As Chile approaches the autumn travel season, events like the Carnaval Mayor de Sernatur play a vital role in stimulating domestic tourism and supporting local economies. By offering free, engaging activities that combine entertainment with access to travel benefits, Sernatur aims to make tourism more inclusive and attainable for all segments of the population.
Those interested in learning more about how to access subsidized travel programs throughout the year — beyond the weekend event — can find application guidelines, required documentation, and seasonal destination lists directly through Sernatur’s official channels. These resources are updated regularly to reflect current availability and eligibility criteria.
With clear signage, volunteer staff, and structured access points, organizers aim to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all attendees, particularly older adults and families who may require additional assistance. The emphasis on accessibility and ease of participation underscores the event’s alignment with broader social tourism goals.
As the weekend unfolds, the sight of colorful hot air balloons rising gently over Parque Estadio Nacional will serve as a visible symbol of Chile’s commitment to making travel and leisure accessible to everyone — regardless of age, income, or background.
To stay informed about future Sernatur events, travel fairs, and announcements regarding subsidized tourism opportunities, the public is encouraged to follow official communications from the National Tourism Service. Sharing experiences and feedback also helps shape future programming to better meet community needs.
Have you attended a Sernatur event before? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below — your insights help inform others looking to explore Chile’s rich travel opportunities.