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Bristol International Balloon Fiesta 2024
3 FREE days of family fun at Europe's LARGEST BALLOONING EVENT!
INFO BELOW IS FROM 2024, 2025 INFO TBC
The very first Bristol International Balloon Fiesta took place during the weekend of September 7th-9th, 1979. A modest assembly of balloon enthusiasts came together to commemorate the inaugural event at the renowned ballooning venue, Ashton Court.
Since it's small start, the Fiesta has expanded consistently, evolving into Europe's most extensive free annual hot air balloon festival. Today, the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta draws more than 100 hot air balloons and captivates an audience of 500,000 enthusiasts throughout the four-day extravaganza.
MORNING ASCENTS
The enchanting morning hot air balloon lifts start promptly at 6am, starting the most magical segment of the fiesta. You can indulge in a coffee and a bacon sandwich from one of the delightful vendors. Take delight in witnessing the balloons inflate up close and gracefully float overhead against the backdrop of the rising sun!
ALL-DAY ENTERTAINMENT
The Fiesta has fantastic activities catering to the entire family. Explore the Brizzle Kicks area for children's entertainment, the bandstand for live music, and the arena for ballooning activities throughout the day! You can also grab a delicious lunch or dinner from one of the vendors.
EVENING ASCENTS
Join the crowd around the ballooning arena to witness the meticulous preparations of the balloonists before takeoff. Baskets are rigged, burners tested, and envelopes filled with air, accompanied by the lively noise and warmth of the hot inflations. Observe the balloons gently jostling for position as their pilots gear up for flight.
NIGHT GLOW
Experience the captivating Night Glows, a stunning and iconic spectacle occurring on Thursday and Saturday nights, immediately following the return of balloon teams from the evening ascent. At 9pm, a dazzling assembly of up to 25 balloons illuminate in sync with a soundtrack curated by the team at BBC Radio Bristol!
- Is there car parking? Ashton Court is situated to the southwest of Bristol city center. Directions to the car parks are signposted from all routes into the fiesta and can be found on your print-at-home ticket. All Car Park tickets must be purchased in advance and are single entry only. Purchase your ticket here!
- Can I bring my dog? Dogs are welcome at the fiesta however due to a busy site it is asked that you please keep them on the lead and pick up any dog litter. Some dogs are also scared of hot air balloons as well!
- Do I need a ticket for The Fiesta? The Fiesta is free and unticketed, which is a key part of the ethos of the event. It’s accessible to all!
- Can I bring my motorhome? Due to the logistics of parking hundreds of vehicles of different shapes and sizes, we do not allow caravans and large motor homes in the Balloon Fiesta car parks (if you have a standard car/van size camper that’s just fine!). There is no overnight parking allowed in the carparks.
Daily - from Friday 8 August 2025 to Sunday 10 August 2025
Ashton Court Estate, Long Ashton, Avon, Bristol BS41 9JN
Price: FREE
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