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