Bristol history with hot air balloons spans all the way back to the 1960s.
Seeing a flotilla of hot air balloons bobbing around the sky is quite a sight. They're vibrant, colourful, and can be enjoyed while having two feet firmly on the ground. There's been a rise in hot air balloon-related activities over the last few years, with hot air balloon dining events happening throughout the UK.
And if you're from the South-West - or love a good road trip - then you're in luck. A hot air balloon festival is heading back to Bristol for its 48th year - and it's completely free. Here's everything you need to know about the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta 2026
What Is The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta?
Despite being widely known as a famous arts and music hub, Bristol is also often referred to as the 'ballooning capital of the UK'. The first ever hot air balloon was constructed in the city (called the Bristol Belle) in 1967. It's also home to Cameron Balloons, a world-leading manufacturer in the industry.
But then came the first ever Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, debuting in 1979 and firmly solidifying the city as Europe's ballooning capital. There's set to be more than 500,000 people attending the event this year and over 100 balloons floating around the skies over the August weekend.
What's On The Programme For The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta?
A lot of balloon-themed action is squeezed into the three-day Fiesta. Here's what to expect:
- More than 120 hot air balloons will take to the sky (weather permitting)
- Stunt displays
- Marching bands
- Interactive challenges
- Children's entertainment
- Meet and greet with the pilots
- Live music
- Nightglow - a magical display of glowing balloons set to the music from BBC Bristol
Plus so much more.
Here's a taster of last year's hot air balloon designs:
- Green aliens
- Dragons
- Rupert the Bear (no longer flies)
- A screwdriver
- Disney's 'Up' balloon
- Slick the Dragon
- Astro the Alien
Where Is The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta?
Here's the location: Ashton Court Estate, Long Ashton, Avon, Bristol BS41 9JN
When Is The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta?
The Bristol Balloon Fiesta is taking place from Friday 7th to Sunday 9th August.
How Much Is It To Attend The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta?
The Fiesta is completely free to attend. However, as it's a non-for-profit organisation, they do charge a parking fee starting at £10 that goes towards the upkeep of the festival.
More information can be found on the Bristol International Balloon Festival Website.
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