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Floating birthday cakes Keystone

Plenty of hot air In this case, lots of hot air is a good thing, allowing the balloons to rise. (Fabrice Wagner) Fabrice Wagner

Fly-by Ideal weather conditions and beautiful scenery make this the place to be for hot air ballooning in Europe. (Keystone) Keystone

Musical animals? From oversized bagpipers to flying turtles, this event has it all. (Keystone) Keystone

Swiss vista Taking to the skies provides an unparralleled view of the Eiger, Mönch und Jungfrau. (Reuters) Reuters

Show of lights "Night Glow" takes place from Saturday to Sunday and is the highlight of each year's event. (Fabrice Wagner) Fabrice Wagner

A heaven bound church This balloon, modeled after a famous church in St Gallen, was one of the most impressive of 2006. (Keystone) Keystone

New life for an old master 2004 saw Vincent Van Gogh appear in a somewhat unconventional form. (Keystone) Keystone

Fighting fire with milk Fortunately there are no forest fires during winter, although the Swiss remain prepared for the unforeseen. (Keystone) Keystone

Stalking the largest of rabbits A fox peers over a ridge in 1997. (Keystone) Keystone

In the beginning The first Balloon Week in 1979 set the stage for three decades of flying and fun. (Keystone) Keystone

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Balloon Week in Château-d'Oex is celebrating its 30th birthday.

For 30 years, Balloon Week has attracted thousands of curious visitors. This year, weather permitting, 95 balloons from 20 countries will take flight. The event runs until January 27. (Keystone)