The Balloon Fiesta is back - here's what you need to know

The Balloon Fiesta is back - here's what you need to know

Posted on: 20 Jul 2023

Get ready to soar to new heights of fun with the return of Bristol's most iconic free event, the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.

The Balloon Fiesta is back, starting Thursday 10th August – and this 45th edition is mixing it up with a Thursday mass ascent and a fun-packed Family Funday Friday.

In a change from tradition, the first mass ascent, usually held on Friday morning, will now take place on Thursday evening at 6 pm. The sky will be painted with up to 100 balloons as they gracefully float across Bristol's landscape, creating breathtaking scenes that will leave spectators in awe. And that's not all – after the mass ascent, prepare to be enchanted by the truly legendary Nightglow, where multiple balloons will light up to a unique soundtrack, setting the night sky aglow.

On Friday, Ashton Court will transform into the ultimate playground for families with Family Fiesta Friday. From the early 6 am morning ascent to the evening ascent at 6 pm, the day will be jam-packed with family-friendly fun and on-the-ground entertainment for everyone.

Get ready for a symphony of live music at the Bandstand, curated by the team at Bristol-based record label, Jelli Records. Meanwhile, the children's Brizzle Kicks area will be buzzing with non-stop fun brought by kids entertainers extraordinaires, Party Peeps, including their beloved Foam Party! For those with a curious spirit, meet the flight teams in the main arena, step inside an inflated balloon, and stand in a balloon basket, imagining you're soaring above the city.

 

 

And of course, the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta wouldn't be complete without the exciting special shapes taking to the skies. Keep an eye out for appearances from Thomas the Tank Engine, The Piggy Bank, Choc Dips, and Snow White – it's a balloon parade like no other!

To ensure a smooth experience, make sure to purchase your car parking and Shuttle Bus tickets in advance through the Fiesta website, as there will be no entry on the day.

So mark your calendars - Bristol Balloon Fiesta is back Thursday 10th August - Sunday 13th August. Follow the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates, and don't miss this chance to be part of Bristol's most uplifting celebration!

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Patrick Bate

Patrick is a filmmaker with so much Bristol in his blood the white blood cells are graffiti'd. Educated at the Northern Film School in Leeds, he’s returned home to be a Videographer and Reviewer for 365Bristol and BARBI. When he’s not messing about with cameras, he enjoys playing guitar, spending far too much time on tabletop RPGs, and being an awful snob about cider. Have a look at his work here, or get in touch at patrickb@365bristol.com.