Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2022: Dates, what’s on and tickets as event returns to Ashton Court Estate

Organisers say this year’s event will be ‘one to remember’

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Thousands of people are set to descend on Ashton Court Estate later this year as the Bristol Balloon Fiesta returns to celebrate its 44th anniversary in the city.

The much-loved free event will run from Thursday, August 11 - Sunday, August 14, with mass balloon ascents at 6am and 6pm and two ‘nightglows’ lighting up the mansion’s historic grounds.

 Hot air balloons take to the skies over Bristol city centre. Hot air balloons take to the skies over Bristol city centre.
Hot air balloons take to the skies over Bristol city centre.
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Organisers say plans are underway to make this a ‘year to remember’ for visitors, with entertainment running throughout the day including aerial displays, fairground rides, balloon tethering and demonstrations and a local music stage.

On Thursday and Sunday night the famous Nightglows will return, which see the balloons light up in time with a soundtrack provided by BBC Radio Bristol, followed by a spectacular firework display.

Don Cameron, founder and chairman of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, said: “After a difficult two years for our communities and of course many of our balloonists, we are delighted to be bringing the fiesta back home to Ashton Court.

Crowds watch as tethered balloons are illuminated by their burners during the nightglow evening event at Ashton Court.Crowds watch as tethered balloons are illuminated by their burners during the nightglow evening event at Ashton Court.
Crowds watch as tethered balloons are illuminated by their burners during the nightglow evening event at Ashton Court.

“We are hoping for sunny skies and light winds as many new balloons will take to the skies, alongside some old favourites from the UK and lots of international destinations.

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“We’re proud to be able to continue putting on a show for Bristol and helping put the city on the map as a ballooning capital.”

Costa Coffee will also return with their Summer experience ‘A Coffee With’ where visitors can meet pilots, explore inside inflated hot air balloons and catch storytelling and crafts for all the family.

Hot air balloons rise into the morning sky from the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.Hot air balloons rise into the morning sky from the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.
Hot air balloons rise into the morning sky from the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.

Carparking tickets are now on sale on the website.

For more information and to keep up to date on the latest news visitwww.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk or follow them on Instagram and Twitter and Facebook.

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