Hong Kong’s first International Hot Air Balloon Festival, launched on September 4 at the Central Harbourfront, has come under fire after its signature tethered balloon ride was cancelled at the last minute due to safety approval issues. The balloons were displayed only as static exhibits, sparking anger among visitors who accused organisers of misleading them.
Organisers initially refused refunds, instead offering free ice cream and re-entry passes as compensation. The move triggered widespread online backlash. By the festival’s final day, full refunds were announced. The Consumer Council said it had received 263 complaints involving HK$270,000 (A$53,000), while Customs confirmed it had launched an investigation.
The government stressed the festival was a commercial event, not organised or funded by authorities. Local media reported the company behind it lacked experience with large-scale events, and safety problems had surfaced as early as August test runs. A final test conducted just one day before opening also failed to meet standards.
The fiasco follows other recent controversies, including the “Messi no-show” football match and a snooker tournament that ended abruptly. Economists warn repeated missteps are eroding public confidence in the city’s “mega event economy” and undermining Hong Kong’s reputation for professionalism and efficiency.
While some in the tourism sector believe the fallout is mostly local, scholars argue that when the government actively promotes such events but distances itself once problems arise, it raises questions about its regulatory role.