Residents in Canberra, Australia, were treated to a hot air balloon spectacular last month when many of them looked to the skies – only to see Darth Vader himself looming over their city.
Canberra was celebrating its centenary and the city lined up a host of fantastic celebrations, but none brought out the crowds in full force more than the hot air balloon form of Darth Vader. More than 4,000 people visited the balloon, which was guarded by Vincent McGann who was dressed as a Stormtrooper throughout the event. This in turn saw many of the city’s residents don fancy dress for the celebration of their city.
The Star Wars themed hot air balloon was put together by Canberra residents who belong to the worldwide legion of Star wars enthusiasts. All dressed in Star Wars get-up, they wowed onlookers when they inflated the flaccid Darth Vader balloon to its full and fearsome glory.
There are many Star Wars enthusiast garrisons all over the world, and they are known for staging Star Wars themed spectacles in their home towns and cities. However, few have ever been as truly spectacular as the giant Darth Vader hot air balloon on display that weekend.
The balloon was delivered all the way from Belgium to Australia – much to the excitement of the enthusiasts and townspeople who saw it. Many onlookers whooped with delight as it was erected, and stood staring in awe of its looming presence over the city.
