Bristol things to do 11-14 August: Balloon fiesta, yoga brunches and pitchside dining

It’s always nice to have different options for weekend activities, from those that are more whole weekend consuming to those that are dip in and dip out, and for this weekend, Bristol really delivers.

Perhaps you fancy paying the famous Bristol Balloon Fiesta a visit, or perhaps you’d rather take it easy and head to a yoga brunch for a bit of indulgence and wellness all in one. Either way, take a look at what’s on this weekend and start making your plans!

Bristol Balloon Fiesta

One of the most anticipated large-scale events of the whole Bristol calendar, the Balloon Fiesta is kicking off this weekend with launching from Ashton Court. Held annually, the Fiesta is jam-packed with activities for all the family.

Head to the Brizzle Kicks area for children’s entertainment, bandstand for live music, and the Costa POD for a full programme of activities, talks and performances. Check out hundreds of traders and watch the arena entertainment through the day. The hot air balloons inflate at 6pm for the afternoon ascent.

Don’t miss out! The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta attracts over 100 Hot Air Balloons and 500,000 visitors over the four days of the event.

Pitchside Dining at Ashton Gate

For something a little different this weekend, pitchside dining could be just the ticket! Taking place on Saturday 13 August, supporters can enjoy this unique dining experience and combine it with going on toward the Balloon Fiesta afterwards or continuing on for drinks in the football bar.

You will arrive at the stadium and walk in the footsteps of sporting stars, through the tunnel and out into the stadium bowl, where you will have incredible photo opportunities before being seated for al fresco dining on picnic benches pitchside.

Morning Ascent at Clifton Observatory

Really see in the Balloon Fiesta in style with this morning ascent event at the Clifton Observatory - a perfect way to start the day at the infamous event.

On 12 August from 6-10 am, enjoy the incredible sight of the first mass ascent of the Fiesta from the very best vantage point in Bristol: the Rooftop Terrace at Clifton Observatory! You can also enjoy this on Saturday and Sunday, too.

The World Reimagined Trail

The World Reimagined Trail starts this weekend and is a ground-breaking UK art-education project which will see trails of over 100 large globe structures in seven cities across the UK (Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Leicester, Liverpool City Region, London, Swansea) from 13 August to 31 October 2022.

The trail in Bristol will consist of 10 Globe sculptures, one of which will be created in a unique collaboration between multi-award-winning artist, Michele Curtis, who will create a community globe with local people and communities of Bristol.

Yoga Brunch Club at Wiper and True

Head to the brand new Wiper and True venue on Old Market on Sunday 14 August from 10:45 am for a morning of yoga followed by a delicious brunch by Eatchu.

The wholesome wellness event will allow exclusive access to the space before the brewery doors open for a 60mins yoga session led by Clem Balfour. In addition to your yoga flow session and Eatchu lunch, you can also choose any one drink from the Wiper and True bar.

Sounds pretty good, hey?

Spiders of the Avon Gorge with Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project and Bristol Zoo Gardens

A brilliant event for families and those looking to keep the kids entertained this weekend, Spiders of the Avon Gorge is in collaboration between Downs Wildlife Project and the Bristol Zoo Gardens.

On 13 August from 10:30 am, explore the Gully with Mark Pajak as you take a look at the variety of spiders living in the Avon Gorge. You’ll search for signs of elusive purse web spiders (relatives of tarantulas!), jumping spiders and orb weavers as well as many other species.