Sky above Bristol brims with hot air balloons in anticipation of annual festivity
The 47th Bristol International Balloon Fiesta Returns to the Skies of Bristol
The much-anticipated Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is set to take place from Friday, August 8 to Sunday, August 10, 2025, at Ashton Court Estate, Bristol[1][2][4]. This annual event, Europe's largest hot air balloon gathering, is free for all to attend.
A Spectacle in the Sky
The festival promises a series of thrilling main attractions and events, weather permitting. The highlight will be the scheduled mass ascents of over 100 hot air balloons at 6:00am and 6:00pm each day[1][2][3].
Other daily highlights include the immersive "In The Clouds" attraction, daytime aerial displays featuring model balloons and model planes, meet-the-pilot sessions, and nightglow events[1][2][4].
Three Days of Entertainment
The fiesta's schedule is packed with entertainment for the entire family. Here's a brief overview of the activities planned for each day:
Friday, August 8: - Mass Ascents from 6am and again at 6pm. - Historic Balloons at 8:45am. - Children’s entertainment with The Rockets Motorcycle Display Team (11am and 4:30pm) and Brizzle Kicks Stage from noon. - BIMM Moon Stage music from noon. - Hot Air Balloon Tethering from 1pm. - Samba Band performance at 7:30pm. - Model Balloons Glow at 8pm and Nightglow at 9pm[1].
Saturday, August 9: - Mass Ascents at 6am and 6pm. - Avon & Somerset Police Dog Display at 10:45am and again at 2:15pm. - Children’s entertainment with the Motorcycle Display Team and Brizzle Kicks from noon. - Cameron Balloons Demonstration and Meet the Pilot at 3:30pm. - Samba Band at 7:30pm. - Model Balloons Glow at 8pm and Nightglow at 9pm[1][4].
Sunday, August 10: - Mass Ascent at 6am. - In The Clouds opens at 6am. - Model Balloons at 8:15am. - Model Planes at 9:15am. - Avon & Somerset Police Dog Demonstrations. - Outdoor yoga sessions and other daytime activities are also featured during the festival[4].
New Additions and Returning Favorites
This year's Fiesta programme includes both returning fan favorites and new attractions. The Up balloon, Wallace and Gromit Moon Rocket, Thomas the Tank Engine, and Sonic the Hedgehog are among the new additions to the Fiesta[5].
Perfect Conditions for Flying
Steve Thomas, a pilot from the Hot Air Balloon Company, commented on the perfect conditions for flying over Bristol, stating, "The weather was reported to be perfect with nice visibility across the city"[6].
Excitement in the Air
Mr Thomas, a hot air balloon pilot with about 10 years of experience, expressed his excitement for the upcoming Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, stating, "The launch offered views of Bristol's City Hall, cathedral, historic harborside, and Temple Meads train station"[6].
Enthusiasm for the Fiesta
The new mayor of the West of England, Helen Godwin, expressed her enthusiasm for the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, stating, "The balloons launched from College Green in the heart of Bristol on Friday morning"[7].
The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is an important event for the city of Bristol, with a history dating back to the 18th century[8]. This year, over 100 hot air balloons are expected to participate in the festivities[3][4][5]. The event is free to attend, making it an unmissable experience for all.
[1] Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
[2] BBC News
[3] Bristol Live
[4] Visit Bristol
[5] Bristol Post
[6] ITV News
[7] Bristol Live
[8] Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
Prepare for a thrilling blend of home-and-garden charm and travel adventures at the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. As part of the family-friendly schedule, don't miss out on the 'In The Clouds' attraction, where you can immerse yourself in a unique experience.
Besides witnessing the mass ascents of over 100 hot air balloons, this year's fiesta features new additions such as the Up balloon, Wallace and Gromit Moon Rocket, Thomas the Tank Engine, and Sonic the Hedgehog, promising an unforgettable home-and-garden-inspired lifestyle experience amidst the travel adventures.
