Paragliders, hot-air balloons, 2,000-women ‘ao dai’ parade draw crowds at Vietnam’s Dong Thap lotus festival

The event, held at Van Mieu Square, introduced hot-air balloons and paragliding performances to the festival for the first time, drawing spectators to central festival areas from early morning.

Nearly 2,000 women took part in a parade through festival streets wearing ‘ao dai’ decorated with lotus-inspired patterns and colors, adding to the event’s festive atmosphere.

The activities are part of the third Dong Thap Lotus Festival, which opened on Thursday evening.

The festival features exhibitions on the lotus industry, displays of about 100 domestic and international lotus varieties, local products, lotus-themed cuisine, and cultural events through Sunday.

Organizers displayed 34 hot-air balloons across multiple locations for visitors to photograph, including nearly 20 tethered and low-altitude balloons along Ngo Thi Nham Street near Van Mieu Square.

Four paragliders were scheduled to perform during morning and afternoon sessions as part of the program.

Bui Quoc Nam, chairman of the Cao Lanh People’s Committee, said the hot-air balloon and ‘ao dai’ events were introduced as new attractions aimed at drawing visitors throughout the festival.

He said organizers hoped residents would help promote local culture and tourism and encourage visitors to return to the region known for its lotus-growing heritage.

Paragliding and hot-air balloon performances are scheduled daily from 7:00 am to 9:00 am and from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm through Sunday, with illuminated balloon displays planned for Friday and Sunday evenings.