By Marvin Wittschen, Camp Coordinator

From October 30 to November 3, 2024, the skies above Reimlingen, Bavaria, played host to an unforgettable cultural and aerial adventure. The German-French Balloon Kids Camp, supported by the French-German Youth Office (FGYO) and the FAI Ballooning Commission (CIA), brought together 19 young participants aged 8 to 14. Thirteen children came from Germany, while six traveled from France, creating a vibrant and diverse group.

Soaring Over the Clouds

The highlight of the camp was a spectacular balloon flight with three stages, each lasting about an hour. Guided by skilled pilots, the children experienced the breathtaking beauty of flying above a low and broken cloud cover, with moments of gliding over the clouds offering awe-inspiring views. Unfortunately, further flights were canceled due to weather conditions, as low cloud ceilings made flying unsafe.

Immersive Cultural Activities

The camp was much more than just ballooning. Participants explored the RiesKraterMuseum, uncovering the fascinating geological history of Nördlingen. A magical night tour of Harburg Castle, a visit to a local leisure pool, and a fun-filled Halloween scavenger hunt—preceded by crafting sessions—added to the week’s excitement.

Each day, the children took part in language animation activities, designed to encourage playful and practical language learning. This daily program helped participants communicate across cultures while strengthening their bonds and celebrating their diversity. An intercultural culinary evening further highlighted the richness of their respective regions.

Media Spotlight

The entire camp was documented by a journalist from ARTE Junior Journal, capturing the joy, camaraderie, and learning that defined the event. Their presence added a special touch to the experience, allowing participants to showcase their enthusiasm to a wider audience.

Gratitude for Generosity

This remarkable event was made possible by the support of local ballooning clubs, who provided balloons free of charge, and by the financial assistance of FGYO and CIA. A heartfelt thank-you goes to the volunteer team members who dedicated their time and energy to creating an unforgettable experience for the young adventurers. Their commitment ensured the smooth running of the camp and the well-being of all participants.

As the balloons descended, the memories of this extraordinary camp continued to rise, carrying the spirit of unity, curiosity, and adventure into the hearts of every participant.