Twelve countries are participating in the fourth International Balloon Festival 2018, which began in nearby Pollachi last night.

Giant hot-air balloons from the US, Netherlands, France, Belgium, Poland and Germany were the cynosure of all eyes at the festival organised by Tamil Nadu Tourism Department, official sources said today.

The department showcased giant balloons of National Flag, Angry Birds and ‘2.0’ and about 50,000 visitors were expected to attend the festival to conclude on January 16, they said.

The festival was aimed at promoting Pollachi as a major tourist spot.The show will begin at 6 am and last for two hours and again in at 5.30 pm to 8 pm, when balloons will be blown, lit and sent into the air, they said.