Soaring over lush landscapes with whimsical balloons, the Taiwan International Balloon Festival invites global travellers to experience a magical fusion of flight, culture, and natural beauty in Taitung.
Each summer, the skies above Taitung’s East Rift Valley erupt in colour, sound, and buoyant joy. Now celebrating its 15th edition, the Taiwan International Balloon Festival invites Canadian travellers and global explorers to witness an awe-inspiring blend of flight, art, and local culture. Running through August 21, 2025, this spectacular event continues to transform Taitung into one of Asia’s most visually striking summer destinations.
Set against a backdrop of rice paddies, lush highlands, and stunning Pacific views, the festival brings together balloon pilots, performers, and sightseers from around the world. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil beauty of sunrise ascents or the evening magic of night glow concerts, the experience offers an enchanting window into Taiwan’s unique rhythm of life.
A legacy of levity: 15 years aloft
Since its modest 2011 debut—with just 13 balloons and a single mural balloon created from local children’s artwork—the Taiwan International Balloon Festival has become a global celebration of creativity, accessibility, and community. The event’s record-breaking 66-day stretch in 2013 cemented its status as one of the world’s longest-running hot air balloon festivals.
Over the years, it’s introduced a series of iconic character balloons—Hello Kitty, OhBear (Taiwan’s cartoon Formosan Black Bear mascot), the sea goddess Mazu, and this year, the beloved Doraemon. Beyond pop culture, the festival has pioneered inclusive travel by featuring custom-designed balloons for passengers with disabilities.
2025 highlights: From lift-off to light shows
This year’s edition continues to raise the bar with an eclectic mix of visual spectacle, cultural immersion, and interactive adventures. Here’s what to expect:
Daily balloon flights and tethered rides:
- Take to the skies at dawn (5:30–7:00 a.m.) or glide through golden hour at dusk (5:00–6:30 p.m.).
- Tethered rides are available online or on-site for NT$550–650 (approximately CA$23–28), but advance booking is advised due to high demand.
Night Glow Concerts:
- A record 12 concerts blend hot air balloon illumination with live music, projection mapping, and drone shows.
- Doraemon-themed drones return this year, captivating audiences with a light show above the Luye Highland.
Interactive cultural exploration:
- A stamp-collecting challenge via the festival’s official LINE app encourages visitors to discover charming townships like Luye and Yanping.
- Exclusive international balloons from Canada, Brazil, and beyond will make their debut alongside Taiwan’s signature designs.
Festival-goers should note that the event is closed on Tuesdays, and ticket reservations are limited to two per person. Purchase tickets through EZTravel’s designated page for the most seamless booking experience.
Discovering Taitung: More than just a backdrop
Far from the urban bustle of Taipei or Kaohsiung, Taitung offers a slower, soulful side of Taiwan. Its southeast coast is famed for dramatic scenery, Indigenous culture, and a sense of tranquillity that feels tailor-made for summer escapes.
Luye Highland, the festival’s primary launch site, becomes a buzzing hub of activity during the event. Yet part of the magic lies in venturing beyond. Satellite events and scenic "check-in" spots across the region encourage travellers to explore deeper into Taitung’s rolling valleys and village life.
For those planning a journey, the Taiwan PASS offers discounted rail options for exploring the island, while the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle and Taiwan Tour Bus make it easy to reach the festival and nearby attractions.
A celebration rooted in community
“Taiwan’s balloon festival offers more than just a scenic flight—it shows off the creativity, resilience, and hospitality of Taitung’s people,” shares Sylvia Lee, Director of the Taiwan Tourism Administration's San Francisco Office. “From the cool morning ascents over rice paddies to the glowing spectacles under the stars, it’s an unforgettable summer journey we’re excited to share with our Canadian friends.”
For a seamless travel planning experience, Canadian visitors can visit the Taiwan Tourism Information Centre in Richmond, BC, or consult the official festival website: balloontaiwan.taitung.gov.tw/en.
The 2025 Taiwan International Balloon Festival is a high-flying invitation to reconnect with wonder, curiosity, and cultural celebration. Each balloon that rises over Taitung carries more than just passengers—it lifts stories, dreams, and a shared joy that transcends language or borders.
Whether you’re chasing the perfect sunrise shot, dancing beneath illuminated balloons at night, or exploring Taitung’s inviting communities, the festival offers a rare blend of adventure and authenticity. It’s a chance to see Taiwan from a new perspective—one that floats above landscapes and lingers in memory long after you’ve landed.
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