Southeast Asia's biggest hot air balloon festival could start in Da Lat

The People’s Committee of Lam Dong province in the Central Highlands region on Sunday tasked the Provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism to work with Kingsky Media Events JSC to draw up a detailed plan for a hot air balloon, paragliding and street carnival. parade festival in the city of Da Lat, which upon completion will be the largest of its kind in Vietnam and Southeast Asia.

The company had already requested support from the provincial administration to hold the festival in November, at an estimated cost of VND8.5 billion ($337,200).

Kingsky wanted to receive financial assistance of VND1.8 billion ($71,400) in cash and in-kind for security and accommodation for hot air balloon pilots from the provincial administration.

The provincial department considered the proposals for financial and personnel support to be inadequate. As a result, they, together with the company, must reevaluate some factors to ensure the success of the festival.

According to the company’s proposal, the festival will take place in Lam Vien Square, with up to 30 giant hot air balloons, and will break the record for the largest hot air balloon festival in Vietnam and Southeast Asia.

If the festival continues, it will feature hot air balloon performances, paid hot air balloon rides, paragliding shows and carnival street parades.

The company suggested partnering with relevant units to ensure safety during the event, which will be part of the Da Lat 2024 Flower Festival in December.