A whole host of colorful balloons took to the skies above northwest China's Gansu Province on Tuesday as the fifth hot air balloon festival kicked off in Zhangye City.
Pilots from across the nation guided balloons across the amazing natural landscapes of the Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot, staging a series of coordinated aerial displays to the delight of spectators.
During the event, 40 hot air balloons delivered six scheduled flight performances over the spectacular scenery of the site, which features the stunning Danxia landforms characterized by red sandstone and steep cliffs.
The other activities on offer included 500-drone light shows, a host of energetic song and dance performances of the Yugur ethnic group, and dazzling fireworks displays, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural splendor. "Among the 40 balloons, 23 perform free-flying flights while 17 conducted tethered displays. We also had a balloon in the design of 'Danbao', our local mascot, which was particularly adorable," said Zuo Dan, a Chinese hot air balloon pilot taking part in the event.
Colorful hot air balloons soar above skies in picturesque Gansu scenic spot
