DOHA: The return of the third edition of the Qatar Balloon Festival was welcomed by a huge crowd at its new location at the Old Doha Port, especially this weekend.
This edition witnessed a different kind of spectacle with the introduction of illuminated giant kites of various shapes and characters like a cobra, superman, and an eagle among others.
Aside from the hot air balloons, night glow and giant glowing kites, which are the main attractions of the event, among the crowd’s favourites are the walking parade, human balloon show, music, and clown drums show.
Hassan Al Mousawi, CEO of Safe Flight Solutions, the organiser of the festival told The Peninsula that this edition is distinct with the participation of over 50 balloons, the festival's new site at the Old Doha Port, which offers a breathtaking view of the Doha skyline, and the illuminated huge kites.
Other entertainment activities include DJ music, magic and bubble show, carnival games, and Broadway medley musical live show happening all throughout the 10-day festival which will conclude on January 28. The event starts from 4 pm until 10 pm.
Food kiosks with a variety of international and local cuisine options are also in place. The festival is expected to attract 4,000 to 5,000 visitors per day, said Al Mousawi. Aside from the local residents, cruise passengers will also be able to witness and participate in the festival as the location is in front of the Grand Cruise Terminal, the entry and exit point for cruise travellers.
Heidi from Switzerland who has two young kids said they have been attending the balloon festival every year since it was first held in Aspire Park. “It was great to see and the location this time is perfect as the backdrop is the Doha skyline. I hope tomorrow we can see some hot air balloons flying because for the past two days, it’s very windy and this hinders pilots to take off their balloons.”
Abdul who is with his wife and three kids on a Friday afternoon said they are waiting for the comeback of the festival because it’s been their yearly go-to event in the country. “We really like the new location of the festival here at Old Doha Port. After the festival, we can walk through to Mina District, Box Park, and even go to the museums.”
Meanwhile, those who want to experience riding a hot air balloon can now avail as flights are available to the general public for a discounted price of QR499 through the festival's website, qatarballoonfestival.com, or the festival’s exclusive partner, asfary.com. The 30 to 45-minute flight is available during the morning, from this month until March.
The 3rd Qatar Balloon Festival is being held at Old Doha Port's external green area, in front of the Grand Cruise Terminal. The said event is also part of Qatar Tourism’s “Feel Winter in Qatar” campaign which offers an exciting line-up of events and festivals planned for this winter season.
