Why Is Champagne Served After a Hot Air Balloon Ride?

Riding a hot air balloon is an experience like no other. Not only does it provide a unique way of seeing the unique landmarks of a location, but the ride itself can be quite exciting especially for first-timers.

Such an exhilarating experience often comes with a champagne toast, but what is the reason for this?

The historical tradition of toasting champagne after riding a hot air balloon can trace its roots all the way back to the late 1700s. Back then, operators were flying hot air balloons for the first time. While this was a remarkable achievement, it soon became clear that not everyone had heard of the invention.

During that time and through the 18th century, those who had not seen or heard of hot air balloons were scared out of their wits. Many of them thought it was a dragon coming to attack them. Considering that hot air balloons often land on open areas like farms, it was understandable that they viewed it as a real threat, or perhaps a coordinated attack on their families and their livelihood.

To resolve this problem, the passengers of one of the first successful hot air balloon flights brought with them a bottle of champagne. Rather than drink it for themselves, they decided that it would be best to give it to the farmers as a peace offering.

Eventually, this was done so many times that it became a tradition.

That’s why passengers today who disembark a hot air balloon often raise a glass of champagne to show that they haven’t forgotten the tradition.