The Creative Thailand International Balloon Festival is set to be held in the ancient city of Ayutthaya during December 3-6, 2009 ; This will be the first ever international hot air balloon show to take to the skies over the historic temples and landmarks of the ancient capital. Some 20 colourful giant hot air balloons from Belgium, Japan, the United Kingdom, and host country Thailand, will be taking part in the daily shows.
As night falls, the evening programme kicks off with the sensational Balloon Night Glow show with music and fireworks. This will be followed by a full programme of music and dance, both traditional and modern, presented by some 200 performers from Thailand’s Fine Arts Department Office of Performing Arts. A different programme will be featured on each of the three evenings of the festival. Each performance will run approximately 1.5 hours.
All proceeds from ticket sales for the event will be donated to the Fine Arts Department for the care and maintenance of these ancient relics.
Formally known as Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, the ancient city of Ayutthaya, was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong and has remained the capital city of the Kingdom of Siam for 417 years, (from 1350 to 1767). During this time, 33 kings of various Siamese dynasties have reigned in Ayutthaya, each contributing to the Kingdom’s many cultural treasures.
At its height of glory, Ayutthaya was one of Asia’s most prosperous cities with a proliferation of magnificent temples, palaces and pavilions signifying its wealth and prosperity.
The Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park was designated a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site on 13 December 1991.
Given this magnificent legacy, the ancient capital of Ayutthaya forms the bedrock of Thai culture and provides the perfect venue for showcasing Thai art and culture in all its splendour.
Highlights within the Showground
-Live demonstrations of Thai art and culture, folk cuisine, folk games including traditional kites, and traditional Thai fireworks
-A traditional floating market offering local produce
-Balloon Launch
-Displays by light aircraft
-Fireworks display
-Elephant Rides
-A historical exhibition on ancient Ayutthaya
-Visits to temples and monuments in and around the city with volunteer guides
with thanks to : TAT
