THE skies above Northam will be filled with hot air balloons next month as the National Ballooning Championships come to the Avon Valley.
From September 2-9 international and national pilots will test their skills at varying winds and altitudes.
Spectators can join in the action with plenty of events planned.
There's the Northam Balloon Fiesta and Baloon Glow on September 2 at Henry Street Oval.
The free fiesta will include a live stage show, balloon discovery zone, carnival rides, games, markets and food stalls.
Then the fun truly starts at 7.30pm when the competition balloons fire up in all their glory with musical accompaniment and fireworks finale.
Another highlight is the key grab competition on September 9. Spectators can watch balloon pilots try to get close enough to grab a key off a 10 metre pole at the Northam Aero Club at first light.
The balloons will launch around sunrise each morning of the event and fly until roughly 9am.
For the best spectator spots visit https://www.facebook.com/northamnationals
For more event details visit http://www.northamnationals.com
