BalloonTalk Hot Air Balloon
BalloonTalk is a STEM/STEAM program that enlightens your students about the exciting adventure of piloting this unique aircraft by bringing a real hot air balloon to your school!
In-Person for Schools and Camps!
Age Range: PrK-12Request Pricing & Dates
BalloonTalk – A Real Hot Air Balloon Comes to YOUR School!
BalloonTalk is a STEM/STEAM program that enlightens your students about the exciting adventure of piloting this unique aircraft by bringing a real hot air balloon to your school!
BalloonTalk engages students in ways completely different than other programs that most kids have never encountered. It’s an ideal platform for teaching science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts and makes them more engaging and relatable! We use hot air balloons to get your students pumped and make an impression that lasts. How does a hot air balloon fly? What does the pilot need to do? Don’t miss this chance to inspire your students, and add to your STEM/STEAM program!
In the News, an article/video from May 2026 click here!
What’s included? The Three-Part Presentation
BalloonTalk takes place rain or shine. The pilot will coordinate weather-related adjustments with the school before the event. Presentations cover the science of hot air ballooning, an overview of a hot air balloon’s working parts, various ballooning occupations, how to become a licensed pilot, a Q&A with souvenir rubber ducks, and the donation of a hot air balloon book for your school library.
The Presentation
This presentation, illustrated with photos, teaches about how balloons work and what they do.
The Balloon
Imagine students’ excitement as they enter a massive, beautiful hot air balloon!
Basket & Burner
The excitement generated by the powerful burner system is unparalleled!
Program Format
BalloonTalk is typically a 90-minute program, including student transitions. The program generally consists of a 30-minute outdoor hot air balloon inflation demonstration for all students (weather permitting), followed by two approximately 30-minute indoor sessions for smaller groups. Timing is flexible to accommodate student movement, school schedules, and weather conditions.
The indoor presentation is a vital part of the program! This is where students explore the science of hot air ballooning, including how hot air creates lift, how wind and weather affect flight, and the principles that make ballooning possible. Students also get to walk inside a real hot air balloon!
The indoor experience takes place regardless of weather. The outdoor inflation is an exciting addition when conditions permit.
Program Logistics & Requirements
Outdoor Segment – Weather dependent
Space: Approximately 150′ x 150′ of grassy, unobstructed space, clear of power lines.
Access: Vehicle access to drive to the demonstration area is required.
Weather: Sustained winds below 7 mph are ideal. Sheltered areas protected by buildings or trees may allow inflation at somewhat higher wind speeds.
Duration: Approximately 30 minutes, with flexibility depending on conditions and school schedules.
Indoor Segment
Space: Gymnasium, cafeteria, or multipurpose room.
Access: Double-door access for equipment and electrical outlets.
Equipment: Rolling cart, ladder, and mobile smart screen preferred. A traditional screen and projector are provided as backup.
Groups: Two smaller sessions are typical. Larger audiences should be divided into groups of fewer than 400 students.
About
In addition to running BalloonTalk, Kelly Hilberth is a commercial hot air balloon pilot. She actively presents instructional balloon programs at elementary, middle, and high schools when she isn’t flying balloons. She treasures the time spent assisting pupils in appreciating the inventiveness and discovery of science as well as the inventiveness of design in problem-solving. She enjoys inspiring kids to go above the norm, always choose the picturesque path, and allow their dreams to come true.
BalloonTalk takes place rain or shine. The pilot will coordinate weather-related adjustments with the school before the event.
