Check out the latest highlights of Taitung Hot Air Balloon Festival’s new Minion-shaped balloon

By MOOK Travel Chen Wenlin, compiled report
 
Every summer, the biggest highlight in eastern Taiwan is undoubtedly the highly anticipated “Taitung Hot Air Balloon Carnival”! In recent years, it has attracted millions of international tourists from around the world, and domestic visitors have also been flocking in. This year, due to its popularity, the Taitung Hot Air Balloon Carnival will be extended to 45 days, running from June 30 to August 13 — something to look forward to.

This year, due to the impact of the Hualien earthquake on tourism in Hualien and Taitung, the Taitung County Government decided to extend the originally planned 38-day hot air balloon event to 45 days, hoping to attract more tourists and boost local tourism. In addition, this year the festival has invited internationally renowned themed hot air balloons to soar above Taitung, including the world-famous landmark “Christ the Redeemer,” the wildly popular Minions from global animated movies, the “Up” balloon that won Oscars and Golden Globes for Best Animated Feature, as well as last year’s visual sensation, the Noah’s Ark “Arky,” which made numerous appearances at Luye Gaotai. All will make their debut at this year’s event.

Meanwhile, to celebrate the Year of the Dog in 2018, the British Bulldog “Buster” will also make its first appearance this year. Alongside Taiwan’s tourism ambassador “Oh Bear” and the widely loved PX Mart mascot “FuLi Bear,” a total of 39 themed hot air balloons will grace the skies above Luye Gaotai this year.

Entering its eighth year, the Taitung Hot Air Balloon Carnival has been selected by Travel Channel as one of the world’s 12 most amazing hot air balloon festivals. With attention from travelers worldwide, those wishing to experience the wonder of hot air ballooning should plan a trip to Taitung this summer and join the festivities alongside friends from all over the globe.