xinhua

 

 

Under the starlit skies of Shan State, Myanmar’s Taunggyi Hot-Air Balloon Festival returned in full splendour this week, drawing thousands of spectators and reaffirming its place as one of the country’s most cherished cultural events.

 

Now in its 131st year, the festival blends artistry, competition, and spiritual symbolism. Over 360 daytime and 81 nighttime balloons are set to rise during the eight-day celebration, which runs until 5 November. Each balloon, crafted by local teams, is a labour of love—some towering nearly 40 feet and adorned with lanterns or fireworks.

 

“This is more than a contest,” said Aung Tin Myo, chief judge and pro-rector of Taunggyi University. “It’s a celebration of national identity, unity, and joy.” Balloons are judged on structure, height, beauty, and discipline, with teams often working day and night to perfect their entries.

 

Among the most dazzling are the Seinnapan and Nya Meekyi balloons. The former glow with intricate lantern patterns, while the latter erupt in 15-minute firework displays mid-air. “We believe launching them drives away misfortune,” said U Kyaw Zaw, 71, a veteran balloon maker.

 

The festival is a community affair. Teams like Zwe Lu Nge involve hundreds of members, from elders to teenagers like 15-year-old Sai Kyaw Thet Han, who proudly assists senior craftsmen. Women, too, play a vital role—cheering, dancing, and supporting their teams.

 

Beyond tradition, the event boosts local livelihoods. Vendors from across Myanmar sell everything from LED crowns to bamboo crafts. “It’s a joy to earn and celebrate at the same time,” said Zaw Myo Htet, a trader from Mandalay.

 

Opened by Shan State Chief Minister U Aung Aung, the festival is held annually during the full moon of Tazaungmon, the eighth month of the Myanmar calendar. His message was clear: preserve the tradition, and let it continue to unite Myanmar’s diverse communities.

 

As the balloons rise, so too does the spirit of a nation—lifting hopes, heritage, and hearts into the night sky.

 

 

-2025-11-03

Soaring with unity and tradition ... in between bombs.

On 11/3/2025 at 9:14 AM, geovalin said:

As the balloons rise, so too does the spirit of a nation—lifting hopes, heritage, and hearts into the night sky.

 

Very much so!

Let us hope that the Junta with its terrorist organisation the Tatmadaw also goes up in flames, but in a different devastating way!

Attended 2 years ago and hugely impressive if on the dangerous side. Some of these balloons are massive and the gondola which is packed with fireworks is only brought in at the last minute then hooked up and everyone wisely backs off.