High-Flying Magic: Your Guide to the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2025
If you've ever wondered what happens when Bristol’s skies turn into a living mosaic of colour, this is your front-row ticket. The 47th Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, held from August 8–10, 2025, at the Ashton Court Estate, is back—and it's soaring higher than ever.
A Weekend Inflated with Magic
Mass Ascents Across the Horizon
At dawn and dusk—around 6 am and 6 pm—over 100 balloons lift off simultaneously, creating a breathtaking kaleidoscopic sky. These orchestrated takeoffs are a spectacle of precision and awe.
Set the Night Alight
Come evening, the Nightglow brings a whole new kind of magic. Tethered balloons illuminate in sync with music by BBC Radio Bristol, casting a radiant glow across the evening air.
Beyond Balloons: Full-Day Festival Vibes
Between launches, the festival buzzes with energy. Dive into the In the Clouds immersive experience, catch stunt kite flights, marvel at historic balloon displays, or enjoy children’s yoyo workshops and family yoga sessions. There’s also a rich lineup of live music and local food stalls throughout the day.
Insider Tips to Maximise the Experience
Book Ahead: Though entry is free, parking passes and shuttle tickets must be reserved in advance—they fill up fast.
Rise with the Dawn: Both experts and locals agree—morning ascents are gold. Kayaks of calm, fewer crowds, and stunning sunrise backdrops—totally worth setting that alarm.
Upgrade Your View: The Sky Lounge offers premium access—think private bar, better vantage points, and fewer queues. Worth it if you prefer treating the festival like an event.
Watch for Special Shapes: Keep your camera ready—the line-up includes Wallace & Gromit’s Moon Rocket, Thomas the Tank Engine, Astro the Alien, and more.
Stay Connected: Weather moves fast. Follow official Fiesta socials to know instantly if ascents are delayed or rescheduled.
A Near Miss—Handled with Grace
On Friday morning, a balloon briefly clipped the roof of Oasis Academy Connaught school but fortunately no one was hurt. The quick response and safe resolution allowed the festival to continue in full swing.
Your Itinerary, Reimagined
Whether you're local or visiting the city:
Catch dawn lifts for that serene, colourful hush.
Explore the In the Clouds exhibit before the afternoon buzz begins.
Stay for the Nightglow—trust us, it’s entirely worth it.
Add in a quick detour to Clifton Observatory for lovely elevated views—or hang out at Brizzle Kicks stage for local life, food, and melodies.
Final Thoughts
The Bristol Balloon Fiesta isn’t just an event—it’s one of those rare experiences that stops time for a moment. Balloons ascending against sunrise, fairy-lit glows against night skies—it’s an experience that stays with you.
Thanks to local support and sponsors like Albert Goodman, this festival remains free and vibrant for all.
If this made you want to grab a hot drink and watch balloons drift into the sky, give this post a save and share it with someone you’d take to the Fiesta. And for more magical UK moments, follow @Londonyaar