Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2018

Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (HAB Fiesta) returns for the 4th consecutive time! Here’s another chance for you to float above Padang Polo (Polo Ground) in Penang on a huge hot air balloon. Held on the 9th and 10th day of Chinese New Year, be sure to mark your calendars on 24th and 25th February 2018 from 7am to 9.30pm.

What better way to celebrate this festivity with your family and friends. There’ll be loads of fun and excitement in store for all ages from 7am to 9.30pm on both days. Not to be missed are 16 colourful hot air balloons displayed during the morning and evening sessions.

FAQs

Where exactly is the Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta held?
It is held at Padang Polo, George Town, 10450, Penang. The GPS coordinates are 5.4182277, 100.3075207.
Is there any entrance fee?
The event is FREE. However, there will be charges for certain activities, as follows:

· Tethered Balloon Ride : RM50

· Cold Inflation : RM5
Are cameras allowed?
Cameras are certainly allowed during the event. However, the use of drone or helical will require license and approval from the Department of Civil Aviation Malaysia (DCA). The organisers will not be responsible for any arising issues related to these equipment. The organisers will also not be responsible for any stolen or missing belongings.
When is the best time to watch the balloons? What if it rains?
The setting up of balloons will start as early as 7am. It's best to be there slightly earlier to find a good viewing spot. However, not all balloons will be inflated at the same time, as the timings may vary. The balloons will be displayed from 7.30am - 9am in the mornings and, it will be up by 6pm in the evenings. The final session of balloons on display is at 8.45pm on both nights which is the 'Night Glow'. All balloon displays are subject to weather conditions, i.e. too windy, too hot and rain will hinder the balloons to be set up.
What is the highlight of the event?
The highlight of the event is 'Night Glow' on the evenings of 24th and 25th February. This is where all the balloons will be stationary at the launching field, and will be lit-up with an accompaniment of music and lights.
Why can't I see any balloons in the afternoon or when it's raining?
Due to our tropical climate, the hot weather does not permit the balloons to be flown or inflated in the afternoon as the temperature is rather high. The balloons require hot air to be blown into the balloon envelope and this poses dangerous conditions for the balloon to be inflated and flown. Also, in the afternoons, the windy atmosphere poses risks to passengers. During rainy conditions, the balloons will get waterlogged, again making it unsuitable to be inflated or flown.
Why can't the public have a ride on the free flying balloons?
For free flying, a hot air balloon can only accommodate a maximum weight of 200kg including the balloon pilot. Hence, due to restrictions in capacity and high safety procedures, only balloon pilots and co-pilots handle the free flying balloons. During the event, the hot air balloons that are on display are more of an exhibition, showcasing different designs, shapes and sizes of the hot air balloons from all over the world. Public can however get close to the balloons on display and even meet the pilots for photo opportunities.

http://www.penanghotairballoonfiesta.com/about.php

We are coming late....almost close to 10AM...but luckily we still able to catch some photo on Hot Air Balloon in Padang Polo today (25 FEB 2018, Sunday).