Myanmar's hot-air balloon festival blends heritage, unity with joy

FILE PHOTO: People prepare to release a hot air balloon during the hot air balloon festival in Taunggyi, Myanmar on Oct. 26, 2017. - Xinhua

TAUNGGYI: Under the vast blue sky of Taunggyi in Myanmar's Shan state, thousands of spectators gathered Thursday night (Oct 31) to witness one of Myanmar's most spectacular events, the Taunggyi Hot-Air Balloon Festival.

As colourful balloons ascended into the crisp mountain air, they carried a deep sense of pride, tradition and unity that has defined the city for generations.