From sunrise to Nightglow: Make every moment count at this year’s Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

With just one week to go until this year's Bristol International Balloon Fiesta in partnership with Albert Goodman, organisers are urging visitors to plan their visit in advance. 

From Friday 7 to Sunday 9 August, Ashton Court Estate will be transformed into a temporary playground of free friendly entertainment, with a stage sat waiting for over 100 hot air balloons to take flight, weather permitting. 

Organisers and the Fiesta’s official travel partner, GWR, are urging visitors to make sure travel plans are in place in advance. Whether travelling by car, train, bus, taxi, foot or cycle, all attendees are reminded to plan their route in advance and follow the official guidance from event organisers. A reminder for those planning to drive, car parking must be booked in advance. 

On leaving a large public event, it can take time to exit the site safely. Those travelling are encouraged to be patient, have water with them and follow the instructions of event staff. 

The Fiesta comes after a period of prolonged dry, hot weather in the UK. Therefore, additional fire prevention measures will be in place across the event. Disposable barbecues will now be strictly prohibited anywhere in Ashton Court Estate and must not be brought to the event. Visitors are still welcome to bring their own picnics, food and drink. 

As an outdoor event, visitors are encouraged to prepare for changing weather conditions. Weather can vary significantly throughout the day, with cooler temperatures and dew possible during early morning launches. 

If conditions are warm, visitors are encouraged to bring and regularly apply sunscreen, wear sun hats and sunglasses, and bring refillable water bottles. The event site includes some shaded areas, however much of Ashton Court Estate is open parkland with limited natural cover. Small beach shelters, pop-up sunshades and umbrellas will be in the Yellow viewing area. However, during busy periods where structures obstruct sightlines or impact safety, visitors may be required to take them down. 

This year, Family Stage Area Partner NIVEA SUN will be helping visitors stay sun safe with an interactive activation in partnership with Cancer Research UK, offering practical advice on protecting yourself and your family throughout the event. 

Ben Hardy, Executive Director, Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, said: 

"The Fiesta is all about creating unforgettable memories, and a little preparation can make a big difference. We want everyone to enjoy a safe, comfortable and fun-filled day, whether they're joining us at sunrise, spending the whole day with family and friends or staying into the evening for the Nightglow. 

Organisers encourage those visiting with children to pick up wristbands for young visitors from the Lost Children tent, managed by Grandir UK to ensure contact details are available. Other tips include always staying together, holding hands in crowded areas and agreeing a clear meeting point in case you get separated. 

A dedicated security team will be on site throughout the weekend and will be easily identifiable. They are there to help, and visitors are encouraged to speak to them if they have any concerns or need assistance. 

Avon and Somerset Police officers will also be present throughout the event, carrying out both planned and high-visibility patrols. CCTV operates across the site to support the safety and security of visitors. 

As part of supporting national summer safety campaigns, organisers encourage everyone to remain vigilant. If you see anything that doesn't look right, report it to a member of security or a police officer. In an emergency, always call 999. 

For the safety of all attendees, the use of drones or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are strictly prohibited at, or over the event site. An Airspace Restriction for UAS will be in place for the duration of the event. 

Whether you're fuelling the family or looking for a pitstop, there will be a wide variety of food and drink vendors serving everything from street food favourites to sweet treats throughout the event. 

Those looking for a premium dining experience can enjoy Pasture's on-site restaurant. Early dinner and Nightglow dinner sittings are now fully booked, however there is still some availability for breakfast and the restaurant will open a first come first serve walk-in service from midday to 5pm daily. 

At the heart of the experience of the Fiesta, is a game of chance, will these feats of engineering take flight.  

When weather conditions allow for a mass ascent, visitors witness a spectacle like no other. From Friday to Sunday the compact central arena becomes awash with a rainbow of colour at dawn, approximately 6am, and just before dusk, approximately 6pm. 

On Friday and Saturday, visitors can stay beyond nightfall to experience the event’s iconic Nightglows. After dark, dozens of hot air balloons inflate, and use their burners to glow in time to a soundtrack of inspiring music to bring the crowd of spectators to their feet. 

There are still multiple opportunities for visitors to experience the magic of ballooning and this unique day out even when the weather prevents the hot air balloons from taking flight.   

Outside of the scheduled balloon launches and iconic Nightglows, the main arena is programmed throughout the day to keep audiences entertained. From visitor favourites including Meet the Pilots, inflation races and tethered hot air balloons, to stunt displays, interactive challenges and Samba bands.  

Beyond the arena, a programme of entertainment, traders, exhibitors, caterers and activities allow visitors to experience the magic of ballooning and this unique day out. 

Image by Paul Box