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If you’re looking for the perfect fun & unique festival to go to this summer, look no further -
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta has got you covered. Where else could you spend four days watching over 100 colourful balloons ascend into the sky. And the best part? The festival is completely free to attend.
Proudly owning the title of Europe’s largest balloon festival, the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is a long weekend full of giant colourful balloons, delicious street food and wholesome fun. You get multiple opportunities to watch the balloonists take to the sky, including the famous Night Glow - where the balloons light up the sky, to a soundtrack by BBC Radio Bristol.
Did somebody say free tickets? Admission to the Bristol International Balloon Festival is completely free! The event is non-ticketed and accessible to all.
For the early risers you can grab a coffee and bacon sandwich from one of the food vendors and watch the magical 6am sunrise balloon lifts. During the day you can enjoy live music at the bandstand, visit the arena for ballooning activities, then watch the balloons inflate for the evening ascent. On the Thursday and Saturday evenings you want to make sure to catch the iconic Night Glow evening flights.
If you have some extra cash to splash, you can treat yourself to a place in the Sky Lounge (tickets to this are under £20). The Sky Lounge is perfect if you want to avoid the crowds and features picnic and garden seating areas, as well as a private bar.
If you’re looking to elevate your balloon fiesta experience one step further, you should book tickets to the legendary Clifton Observatory Sunset Party (11 & 12 August.) Watch the evening ascent from a roof terrace with the best vantage point in the city, featuring a sunset DJ and a perfect summer drinks menu. Make sure to book your ticket in advance as they sell out fast!
We recommend these three hotels:
Closest? Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin - a historic hotel with unparalleled views of Clifton Suspension Bridge
Cheapest? Ibis Bristol Centre - clean and sensible. perfect for all your basic needs
Feeling fancy? Berkeley Suites - bespoke bedrooms and food
By Train: The nearest station is Bristol Temple Meads – 1.5 hour train ride from London Paddington. There are regular shuttle buses from the station to the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.
By car: If you’re travelling by car, you’ll need to purchase car parking in advance - you can book tickets here.
There are a wide range of delicious street food stalls on site to choose from.
There is a separate disabled viewing area on site and disabled parking (you’ll need to buy car park tickets in advance).
