Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

About

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta will return to Ashton Court Estate from 9-12th August 2018 to celebrate the iconic event’s 40th anniversary.

The spectacular free event will once again feature over 100 hot air balloons taking off at dawn and dusk as well as the famous Night Glows, when the balloons light up the sky in time to music. This year's event will also see 40 special shapes taking to the air, including a huge tiered birthday cake, Mr Peanut, the Michelin Man and Simbaloo the Longleat Lion.

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is Europe's largest annual meeting of hot air balloons, attracting over 130 hot air balloons from across the globe. It's a sight that can only be seen in Bristol.

Held over four days at Ashton Court Estate, the event is completely free with charges made for parking on the event site. 

> Read our mini guide on how to get to the Fiesta

Alongside the fantastic sight of hot air balloons filling the skies, visitors can also expect a large number of trade stands, fairground rides and entertainment.

The fiesta begins on Thursday 9th August at midday with hot air balloons tethered throughout the afternoon and in the evening the first mass ascent takes place with a firework finale!

On day two on Friday 10th August there will be two hot air balloon lifts and an afternoon of balloon tethering.

Day three is Saturday 11th August and there will be more mass hot air balloon lifts and firework finales and the arena entertainment will run from midday to 5pm.

The fiesta's final day on Sunday 12th August is another day full of mass balloon lifts and fun in the arena, with a programme running from midday to 5pm.

Read more

- Bristol Festivals in 2018
- Ballooning in Bristol
- 118 Things to do in Bristol in 2018

Read more

- Bristol Festivals in 2018
- Things to do this Summer in Bristol
- Ballooning in Bristol
- 118 Things to do in Bristol in 2018