Hong Kong’s first hot-air balloon festival deflates as tethered rides suspended

Hong Kong hosts first hot air balloon festival

Hong Kong is hosting its first international hot air balloon festival in the city’s business district, and colourful displays are lighting up the skyline over Victoria Harbour.

Hot air balloon festival apologises for ‘disappointment’ over axed rides, as Consumer Council receives complaints

Organisers of a hot air balloon festival that advertised rides offering “breathtaking views” over Victoria Harbour have apologised for causing “disappointment,” after visitors were told the experience was unavailable due to not having a government permit. The site of the AIA International Hot Air Balloon Fest Hong Kong at the Central Harbourfront on September 5, 2025. Photo: Kyle Lam/HKFP. The AIA International Hot Air Balloon Fest Hong Kong beg…

Hong Kong’s first hot-air balloon festival deflates as tethered rides suspended

First field test conducted by organiser of the AIA International Hot Air Balloon Fest Hong Kong had been ‘unsatisfactory’, authorities say.