Curtain Rises on 2025 Fiesta with city centre balloon ascent

The curtain has officially been raised on the 2025 Bristol International Balloon Fiesta in partnership with Albert Goodman, this morning, as a spectacular balloon ascent from College Green, supported by Bristol City Centre BID marked the countdown to the world-famous event.

The skies above Bristol offered a preview of what’s to come, with hot air balloons floating over the city’s skyline this morning.  

Now in its 47th year, Bristol’s iconic, free-to-attend event will return to Ashton Court Estate from Friday, 8 August to Sunday 10 August to celebrate the city and its heritage links to the remarkable world of hot air ballooning. 

As ever, the event remains free to attend and will feature a wide array of activities both in the air and on the ground. Over 100 hot air balloons are expected to take part in this year’s mass ascents, scheduled for 6am and 6pm each day, weather permitting. These spectacular launches are the heartbeat of the Fiesta, as balloons of all shapes and sizes rise over Ashton Court Estate at sunrise and sunset. 

This year’s programme includes the return of fan favourites, alongside exciting new attractions making their Fiesta debut. One of the most anticipated additions is In The Clouds, an immersive attraction where visitors can walk inside a cold-inflated hot air balloon, while hearing a soundscape that replicates the experience of pilots in flight. The Fiesta’s official travel partner, GWR, will bring Flight Control to Ashton Court, where a digital map will update and feature the landing locations of each balloon that starts its adventure from the Fiesta’s main arena. 

Also new for 2025 are demonstrations from Avon and Somerset Police Dogs, captivating stunt kite displays, a showcase from balloon manufacturer Cameron Balloons, and even outdoor yoga sessions for those looking to relax amidst the buzz. 

Ben Hardy, executive director of Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, commented: “And here we go again, it’s incredible to be back marking the countdown to the 47th Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. We cannot wait to share the programme and features at this year’s Fiesta that not only enhance the visitor experience but also celebrate Bristol’s unique and historic connection to hot air ballooning.  

“Beyond the main event, we’ve been proud to grow our community outreach through the Schools Tether Roadshow this year, which has brought the magic of ballooning to eight schools across the city. It’s been a real privilege and joy to share with the next generation. 

Neil Johnston, partner, Albert Goodman, added: “The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta has now been going for almost half a century. It’s an iconic event that not only brings people together from across the region but also celebrates the city’s rich heritage and spirit of innovation. As a firm with deep roots in the South West, community is at the heart of everything we do, and the Fiesta perfectly reflects that sense of pride and shared experience. Watching the balloons take flight over the city is always magical, and we’re very excited that this year we’re playing a part in helping to deliver such a memorable event that everyone can enjoy.” 

Helen Godwin, the new Mayor of the West of England, said: “Those of us lucky enough to grow up here in the West Country know there’s nothing quite like the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. Seeing our skies full of shapes and colours is truly special, whether you find balloons already flying overhead or hoping the wind will bring them your way.  

“The balloon fiesta is one of so many reasons that culture here in the West is world-renowned. Mass ascents and night glows will make Ashton Court the place to be once again, and this morning’s city centre balloon ascent is an exciting taster of what’s to come!” 

The expanded special shapes line-up features beloved classics, recent favourites and new additions, including the UP balloon, Thomas the Tank Engine (tether only), Sonic the Hedgehog (tether only), Astro the Alien, Rupert the Bear (tether only), Slick the Dragon, and a Bristol debut for Oggy the Friendly Dragon, flying in from the US, and Nivea Deodorant, made in Bristol but operated in France for more than two decades. Visitors can also look out for the Wallace & Gromit Moon Rocket, Buster and Bella the Bulldogs, Orange, Slither the Snake, Snow White (tether only), Lips, Daisy the Cow, Ralph the Rosier, Ordnance Survey Map (tether only), Panasonic Battery (tether only) and the BBC Globe (tether only). 

This year’s Bristol Balloon Fiesta features an expanded line-up of on-the-ground entertainment. Meet the Pilots offers balloon enthusiasts the chance to chat with crews, while BBC Radio Bristol returns with interactive experiences including voiceover auditions, games, and giveaways. 

Live music fans can enjoy fresh local talent on the Moon Stage, and families can head to the Brizzle Kicks Stage for children’s entertainment from Party Peeps, including magic shows and foam parties. Charity partner Love Squared also returns with a family-friendly tent offering crafts, face painting, and a cycling challenge for adults. 

In the arena, expect thrilling displays from the Rockets Children’s Motorcycle Team, plus model aircraft, historic balloons, and miniature balloon parades. Food lovers can enjoy a premium, ticketed dining experience with fire-cooked dishes from Pasture, or grab BBQ bites from their casual offshoot PRIME. Reservations are available via the Balloon Fiesta website. 

As day turns to night, the Fiesta’s magic continues. On both Friday and Saturday evenings, visitors are invited to stay for the iconic Nightglow. Dozens of tethered balloons will light up in sync to a special musical soundtrack curated by BBC Radio Bristol, creating a luminary dance that has become a defining feature of the event. 

While the Fiesta is free to attend, visitors can enhance their experience by purchasing tickets to Sky Lounge. Located right next to the arena, Sky Lounge offers a clear view of the balloon launch field under a stretch tent, with access to complimentary wi-fi, private toilets and a dedicated cash bar. 

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta 2025 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of ballooning, local culture, and community spirit. With its mix of aerial spectacles, family activities, music, sports, and interactive exhibits, there's truly something for everyone at this year’s iconic Bristol event. 

For more information and details of the full event programme, visit www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk.  

For those planning to drive to the event, car parking, sponsored by GoSkippy , must be booked in advance, through Fiesta’s website, https://www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk/car-park-tickets.  

Stay up to date with the latest news by following the Fiesta’s social media channels. Follow @bristolballoon on Instagram, X, and Bristol International Balloon Fiesta on Facebook for the latest news and updates. 

Photo Credit: Bristol International Balloon Fiesta/Paul Box.