The “Festival Internacional del Globo” (FIG), known as the International Hot Air Balloon Festival in Leon, Mexico, is currently in full swing. Over 200 uniquely shaped and colorful hot air balloons are soaring freely in the sky above Leon City, creating a spectacular visual feast for the tens of thousands of onlookers.
According to media reports, this event, considered as the annual grand event in the global hot air balloon industry, kicked off in the early morning of November 14 at the Metropolitan Park in Guanajuato State, Leon, and will continue until November 17. It has attracted over 200 hot air balloons from 25 countries and regions including Germany, Brazil, Turkey, the United States, France, and Switzerland, with many featuring unique and creative designs.
As the various balloons ascend into the sky, the cheers and applause from the audience are continuous, with spectators eagerly capturing the moment through photographs.
Established in 2002, the Mexico Leon International Hot Air Balloon Festival is now in its 23rd edition and is the largest and most iconic hot air balloon carnival in Latin America. The event has welcomed over 6 million visitors since its inception.
In order to encourage more people to actively participate, the organizers introduced a special “El Viernes de la Gente” (People’s Friday) promotion this year. On the opening day morning, visitors were granted free admission, which resulted in a huge response, with over 20,000 people attending on the first morning, creating an enthusiastic opening.
Below are some captivating scenes captured during the 23rd Mexico Leon International Hot Air Balloon Festival: