14 SEPTEMBER 2025

THE Ta u n g g y i Tazaungdine traditional hot-air balloon festival will be held in Taunggyi, Shan State (South), from 29 October to 5 November at the Aweiya hot-air balloon ground, according to the Southern Shan State Traditional Hotair Balloon Artists Association.

“We are holding this event to further promote tourism in southern Shan State and to sell local food and accessories. During the day, the festival includes the release of two-legged and four-legged balloons, and at night, Seinnapan and Nyameegyi will be launched,” said U Sai Paeti, an executive of the Southern Shan State Traditional Hotair Balloon Artists Association.

The festival, held every year at the Aweiya hot-air balloon ground, was suspended for three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resumed in 2023.

The festival is a traditional Shan celebration that attracts not only residents but also visitors from across the country, and it is a popular attraction for both domestic and international tourists. — ASH/TH