22 incredible photos of Bristol Balloon Fiesta's first wave of stunning special shape hot air balloons

Over 100 hot air balloons are expected to take flight across the city as part of the iconic Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, which returns from August 8 to 10 at Ashton Court Estate.

The organisers have unveiled its first wave of confirmed special shape hot air balloons, including the eagerly awaited returns of the amazing UP balloon with Cameron Balloons, Astro the Alien with Spirit Balloons, Rupert the Bear with Bristol Balloon Collectors and Slick the Dragon with MJ Ballooning.

The incredible 143-foot tall Oggy the Friendly Dragon will make its debut in Bristol after travelling all the way from Albuquerque.

This year will also see the addition of two brand-new ballooning features: In The Clouds and balloon demonstrations with Cameron Balloons.

In The Clouds invites visitors to step inside a cold-inflated balloon for an immersive audio-visual experience, recreating the sensation of being in flight with a pilot's-eye soundscape and video.

Summer is here but the news doesn’t stop - get the BristolWorld newsletter

While Cameron Balloons will this year takeover the arena on Saturday afternoon with a line-up demonstrating the different shapes and styles of hot air balloons they manufacture in Bristol.

Fan-favourite’s Meet the Pilots will also return with extended sessions.

When the weather allows, the spectacular mass ascents are scheduled each morning at approximately 6am and again at 6pm, painting the skies in a kaleidoscope of colour.

As night falls on Friday and Saturday, the fiesta’s legendary Nightglows take centre stage, with dozens of tethered hot air balloons lighting up the arena with choreographed bursts of flame in sequence to a music soundtrack produced by BBC Radio Bristol.

For full programme details and updates, visit www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk

Scroll through for 22 incredible photos of Bristol Balloon Fiesta's first wave of stunning special shape hot air balloons: