Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2020 in Malaysia
An impressive balloon festival on the island of Penang
Dates: February 1–2, 2020 (over)
The Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is held every February at the Padang Polo (Polo Ground) in George Town, the cosmopolitan capital of Penang state. The two-day festival often coincides with the Chinese New Year celebrations, adding a special festive vibe to the event. Penang attracts many visitors from all over Asia because of its beautiful beaches and impressive restaurant scene. The island state is often called the Pearl of the Orient.
Over 15 balloons are launched in the skies during the Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, which attracts pilots not just from Malaysia, but also from the U.S., Belgium, and the Netherlands. The festival, which was held for the first time in 2015, attracts about 170,000 people. Each day of the festival features two ballooning sessions: at dusk and at dawn. Free flying rides are available weather permitting. The festival ends with a beautiful balloon glow, one of the most awaited events of the fiesta.
In addition to balloons, the Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta features some entertainment and family-friendly activities, like kite flying, photography contests, and various workshops.