The provincial government of La Union is inviting tourists to experience a different kind of weekend as it stages anew the hot air balloon and aviation show this weekend.

The activity will be an added tourism attraction in the province, which is known for surfing and exciting tourist attractions.

Governor Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David, in a statement on Thursday, said the La Union hot air balloon show and other activities, which are part of the province’s 174th foundation anniversary, will be held on March 2 to 3 at the Poro Point Baywalk, City of San Fernando, La Union.

“This is our second year of bringing these hot air balloons to La Union. Last year, the show drew crowds who were wowed by these new and exciting thrills,” she said.

Staging of the show is part of the province’s aspirations to become a destination for aviation sports and activities in Northern Luzon, Ortega-David, who is a licensed pilot, said.

Other activities during the event are the La Union Static Display featuring some of the latest and top-of-the-line assets of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Bureau of Fire Protection like artillery truck, fire truck, ambulance, Bell 205A helicopter, rubber boat with rescue equipment gears and diving gears, while the La Union Car Show will showcase a collection of vintage vehicles and supercars.

A drift show will also be featured and will be participated in by some of the biggest names in this motorsport such as the drift family, namely Audel “Dr. Drift” Sison, Arianne “Sister Drift” Sison, and Ashley “Daughter Drift.”

La Union recorded a total of 550,359 tourist arrivals in 2023, with over PHP1 billion estimated tourism receipts. (PNA)