Since it’s beginning in 2015 the Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta has displayed a beautiful assortment of giant hot air balloons. However, it gets better every year! In 2018, the festival featured 7 new balloon designs including a little dog, little heart and Yoda.
The annual balloon festival is usually held during the Chinese New Year celebrations. As a result, it draws huge crowds. In 2018, the fiesta hosted over 100,000 visitors.
Sunrise at Padang Polo Field
In 2018, the annual balloon festival was held at Padang Polo field from 7AM-930PM on Saturday and Sunday, February 24 & 25. The location is ideal to facilitate the large crowd but it is also well positioned for great photos. Therefore, photographers can take advantage of the morning light and enjoy the rising sun.
Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta – Yoda
First prize for showmanship goes to the pilot of the Yoda hot air balloon. Due to the early placement of the balloon on the western skyline, Yoda was always a prominent feature at the 2018 Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta.
Being situated in the rising sun also created a perfect but ephemeral ambience – although there was plenty of time to enjoy it.
Top Finishers Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2018
Other top finishers include the “little dog” design and the local fire truck. Fortunately, the firetruck balloon was driven by a Penang fire fighter with 20+ years of experience. It is a good idea to have a public safety official on hand for the best Penang festivals, just in case. The fire truck kept a low profile and stayed close to the ground.
Indeed, the Yoda balloon seized the opportunity and stole the show. However, the little dog design put on a good display once they got aloft.
Additional Photos of the Best Penang Hot Air Balloons
