The 3rd Thailand International Balloon Festival, scheduled for December 2009, will be up, up and away with more than 60 hot-air balloons from countries from around the world including from the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Austria, Sweden, Denmark, South Africa, Croatia and Malaysia.

A spectator and photographer's delight, this five-day event, first held in 2007, is expected to attract as many as 300,000 visitors to the festival site at War Dog Battalion in Pak Chong district. Many more will be watching skywards from afar. "This year, there are twice as many participating balloons, together with their passionate balloonists and support teams. This is a great opportunity for visitors to enjoy this colourful and exciting event which not only showcases these beautiful air-borne viewing platforms but also demonstrates that Thailand is much more than sea, sand and sun. For balloonists, it also offers ideal weather conditions," said Yut Wanichanond, a trained pilot and instructor with Earth, Wind and Fire - the first hot-air balloon operator in Thailand and one of the festival's organizers.

Although the balloon-related activities are the focus of the festival, there is a whole series of themed fun events, performances and other activities lined up for both local and international visitors to this year's event.

The Thailand International Balloon Festival 2009 is set in the kingdom's own 'cowboy country' of Khao Yai.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand's sponsorship of the Thailand International Balloon Festival reflects the national policy to promote 2008/9 as the Year of Northeastern Tourism.

Web site: www.thailandballoonfestival.com

Contact information:
Earth Wind and Fire Company Limited
158/60 Moo 6 Cheungdoi, Doi Saket
Chiang Mai, Thailand 50220
Tel : +66 (0) 5329 2224
Fax : +66 (0) 5329 2226
E-mail : info@wind-and-fire.com