There’s A Crazy Hot Air Balloon Festival Happening And People Are In Awe

    The fence doesn't go high enough to block flying frogs over Parliament House.

    There are a bunch of balloons flying over Canberra and for once the city is a peaceful and pretty place.

    Honestly, isn't this just dreamy?

    Dreamy isn't really a word you'd associate with Australia's capital but this week, we'll allow it.

    The Canberra Balloon Spectacular (March 10-18) is an annual event that runs as part of the city's Enlighten Festival.

    And it's always quite a draw. Locals wake up early to enjoy the views, but even out-of-town visitors get psyched about visiting the city they usually associate with school trips and boring ol' politics.

    Les Purfield, who's organised balloon festivals around the world, told ABC radio the Canberra event is unlike any other in the world because people can actually get close to the balloons.

    This year over 30 balloons are participating, including Kermie the frog from the United States.

    Jewel, the hummingbird, was also popular.

    And these staples from the Air Force are back.

    You can no longer "step over the heads of politicians" (see: Parliament fence) but for a few days you can at least fly over them.

    You can even stick your head out...and get a great view!

    This road near the Arboretum will allow a grand view of the balloons.

    Or if intimate is more your thing, there are several spots along Lake Burley Griffin that you can choose from.

    Honestly Canberra ...

    Is this really you?

    If you fancy being on one of these balloons, or just wanna sit and watch the spectacle from the ground, you can get all the info here.