Text by Li Xinyi, compiled and reported by MOOK Travel Life Network
Taiwan’s largest hot air balloon carnival is set to launch on June 29 at Luye Plateau in Taitung and will continue until September 2. A total of 21 hot air balloons from 13 countries including the U.S., Canada, Switzerland, France, the U.K., New Zealand, and Australia, along with 47 domestic and international pilots, will participate in the event. As long as weather permits, there will be thrilling hot air balloon free-flight performances daily, plus up to 65 days of tethered hot air balloon experiences open to the public. This year also features special-shaped balloons including an ice cream design and a pirate-themed one, making their Taiwan debut.
The hot air balloon carnival has been expanded this year, with the Taitung County Government funding the training of Taiwan’s first group of domestic hot air balloon pilots. (Photo provided by Taitung County Government)
In addition to free-flight shows and tethered balloon rides, the venue will host daily hot air balloon exhibitions, showcases of Taitung specialties, souvenir sales, and outdoor experience areas. Other activities include kite performances from Monday to Wednesday, paragliding displays and grassland concerts from Thursday to Sunday, as well as additional programs like hot air balloon lectures, a hot air balloon summer camp, and light-and-sound music shows. The light-and-sound concerts have increased from one last year to four this year. These events combine the fiery artistry of illuminated hot air balloons with musical rhythms for a spectacular audiovisual experience. The first light-and-sound concert will be held on the evening of June 29 at Taitung County Stadium and is open to the public free of charge.
This year, the duration of the hot air balloon tethered flight experience has been extended to allow more people to take part. (Photo provided by Taitung County Government)
This year, the Taitung County Government has also commissioned two hot air balloons made in Spain that will become Taiwan’s first two officially registered and legally permitted for free flight, with the codes b00001 and b00002. These will help make Taitung’s hot air balloon events a new highlight for Taiwan’s tourism industry. During the event period, in addition to increased train and bus services, Taitung County is also launching a shared taxi service for the first time, available at Taitung, Luye, Guanshan, and Chihshang train stations.
Taiwan Hot Air Balloon Carnival
Dates: June 29, 2012 – September 2
Venue: Luye Plateau
Website: tsn.taitung.gov.tw/balloontaiwan
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