| Keyword |
Description |
| Tissue paper |
Thin, colorful paper is used to build the balloons |
| Torch |
A small flame that heats the air to lift the balloon |
| Tradition |
A custom people keep doing to stay connected as a community |
In Ajijic, Jalisco, families and friends create huge paper balloons and send them into the sky every September, transforming the soccer field into a joyful celebration of music, food, and cheers. The tradition began in the late 1950s as a warm-up to Mexico’s Independence Day, and it is still free to watch today. Teams wear matching shirts and work together to finalize the details before launch, demonstrating the meticulous care that goes into each creation. The balloons are built from thin tissue paper glued into colorful shapes, held by a light wooden ring, and lifted by a small diesel-soaked torch that heats the air inside. The smallest takes hours, and the biggest takes weeks.
Things do not always go perfectly, and that is part of the fun and the lesson. A gust can rip a seam, a spark can start a fire, and a funny chick or cactus balloon might fall apart, but teams just try again. Families like Team Pera Loca include three generations, and when a giant star finally rises, everyone shouts with pride. Locals, visitors, and expats all celebrate together, while sponsors and donations help pay for materials so the festival can continue. In a changing town, each balloon is a bright way to keep community, creativity, and tradition strong.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English |
Spanish |
| Paper |
Papel |
| To transform |
Transformar |
| Creativity |
Creatividad |
Time to discuss
- Why do people keep launching balloons even when some rip or burn up?
- Would you enjoy taking part in this festival? Why?
- What matters more here: winning with the biggest balloon or making something together?
Let's write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph:
- Imagine you are a paper balloon — tell the story of your launch from start to finish.
- Design a balloon to honor someone special and explain your colors and shapes.
