Multitudes of air balloons ascend into Bristol's skyline

Multitudes of air balloons ascend into Bristol's skyline

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta 2025: A Spectacular Celebration of Hot Air Balloons

Get ready for an unforgettable experience as the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta returns from Friday, August 12 to Sunday, August 15. This annual event, held at the picturesque Ashton Court Estate, promises a thrilling four days of aerial spectacles, pilot briefings, and special attractions.

Each day at the fiesta follows a similar pattern. The morning kicks off with a pilot briefing around 6:00 am, followed by a mass balloon launch between 6:00 am and 8:00 am. Balloon tethering sessions take place from 8:00 am to 10:00 am, with additional sessions at lunchtime. As the sun sets, an evening pilot briefing signals the start of another evening mass balloon launch, which lasts from 6:15 pm to 8:00 pm.

On Saturday evening, the fiesta reaches its climax with a Night Glow event, where dozens of tethered balloons light up in sync to a special musical soundtrack, followed by a firework finale around 9:30 pm. On other days, the Night Glow or gates close around 8:30–9:00 pm.

This year's fiesta will celebrate Bristol's heritage links to hot air ballooning. The activity has been part of Bristol's culture for many years, with the first recorded flight dating back to the 18th century.

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is renowned for hosting the world's largest annual meeting of hot air balloons. A variety of special-shaped balloons will be present, including Up, Thomas the Tank Engine, Sonic the Hedgehog, Astro the Alien, Rupert the Bear, Oggy the Friendly Dragon (from America), Wallace & Gromit Moon Rocket, Buster and Bella the Bulldogs, Slither the Snake, Snow White, an Ordnance Survey Map, and BBC Globe.

Commercial balloon pilot Tom Hilditch, 35, from Brighton, was among the pilots who flew in the mass ascent. He praised the "idyllic conditions" for the flight and expressed his plans to cycle around England next year, towing a hopper balloon to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.

The balloons will take off early morning and evening, weather permitting. The opening ceremony of the event begins just after 6am, and balloon burners will mark the start. As the balloons rise into the sky, they'll create a breathtaking sight, with one balloon carrying a union flag, followed by dozens of other brightly coloured balloons.

So, mark your calendars and prepare for an exciting journey into the skies at the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta 2025. And remember, while there is no admission fee to enter the event, parking fees apply.

Experience the perfect blend of adventure and leisure at the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, as you explore the home-and-garden of the breathtaking Ashton Court Estate during your travel, embracing a unique lifestyle that combines the thrill of hot air balloons with the charm of Bristol's history, culture, and traditions. This journey promises captivating displays, making it an unforgettable addition to your 2025 travel itinerary.

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