Bristol’s International Balloon Fiesta is pretty iconic. As Europe’s biggest hot air balloon festival, every year more than 100 colourful balloons fly over the Clifton Suspension Bridge. It's a spectacular sight, and not to be missed.
Over the past few years however the extravaganza has been struggling financially. Nevertheless, the organisers have decided to soldier on, and have just announced the return of the Balloon Fiesta for 2025. Hooray for hot air!
Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s event.
Date of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
In 2025 the massive hot air balloon gala will take place from August 8-10. This year it will be spread over three days instead of the usual four.
Do you need tickets?
The event is free to attend, just find a good viewing spot for the action. There will be a charge for car parking.
Events and programme
Mass ascents take place twice a day at roughly 6am (sunrise) and 6pm (sunset), although they are weather permitting. This year will see the return of nightglows, evening hot air balloon events that will take place after dark on the Friday and Saturday nights of the festival. The exact time for the nightglows hasn’t been confirmed yet.
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