Hundreds of thousands gather at Sa Dec Square in southern Vietnam for hot-air balloon program

Streets surrounding the square in Sa Dec Ward were packed with pedestrians inching forward amid dense festive crowds, Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper reporters observed.

Nearby vendors and restaurants were filled to capacity as families and tourists dined while waiting to watch the hot-air balloons, which are being staged in Sa Dec for the first time.

A key component of the second Sa Dec Flower and Ornamental Plant Festival 2025, the program is expected to attract more visitors, organizers said.

According to the festival plan, the hot-air balloon performances will run from January 1 to 4, with daily sessions scheduled for 6:30 am to 9:00 am and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Each session features 33 balloons, including two grade-7 balloons, 20 grade-1 balloons, and 11 smaller balloons arranged around the square.

A total of 40 pilots and technicians have been assigned to operate the balloons, supported by 20 ground volunteers.

Hoang Thi Truc, a visitor from Can Tho City, said she and her family of six arrived in Sa Dec in the afternoon to explore the festival and take photos before the main activities began.

"This is the first time my family and I have seen hot-air balloons in real life. They are truly beautiful, and this may be the most impressive festival I've ever experienced," she said.

Ahead of the official opening, the festival organizers conducted test flights of dozens of balloons at the square, drawing large crowds and earning widespread praise on social media for their striking appearance and novelty.

The organizers said all hot-air balloon activities comply with international safety standards and are strictly dependent on weather conditions.

In unfavorable weather, schedules may be adjusted or flights postponed to ensure public safety.