Yesterday, we saw our first hot-air balloon over Bristol and it must have been a sign. Today (May 25), Bristol International Balloon Fiesta announced its return for 2023. Back once again at Ashton Court Estate, we expect it to be bigger and better than ever too as it celebrates its 45th anniversary!
This iconic fiesta is one of the most spectacular sights in the UK. And, as Europe’s largest annual balloon fiesta, will attract hundreds of thousands of visitors to witness mass ascents and two much-loved nightglows. In fact, we predict all of Bristol will be out and about trying to catch a glimpse of colourful balloons flooding the city’s skies across the long-weekend.
The free-to-attend four-day event will see 100+ hot air balloons of all shapes, sizes and colours take to the skies at dusk and dawn. And plans are already underway to make this sapphire celebration one to remember when it takes place Thursday, August 10 to Sunday, August 13. As well as the up-in-the-clouds entertainment, the fiesta will feature aerial displays, fairground rides, delicious food and drinks stalls, local music and a children’s entertainment stage, Brizzle Kicks.
“We’re celebrating another year of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta and are delighted to be back at our home grounds of Ashton Court once again,” said Don Cameron, founder of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. “It’s a difficult time for a lot of people and it’s more important than ever to give the communities of Bristol a fantastic fiesta that’s free for everyone to attend. We’ve got all pilots crossing their fingers for blue skies and light winds as we set off to the skies.”
If you’re looking to achieve up-close-and-personal views of the mass ascents and more this year, Sky Lounge will make its VIP return for 2023. Sky Lounge ticket holders will have front-row seats for the mass ascents at both 6am and 6pm. Plus you’ll be situated just feet away from the two nightglows on Thursday and Saturday evenings. Guests will also have access to a private area, alongside private catering facilities.
Visitors to Bristol International Balloon Fiesta can also expect the return of the Fiesta Shuttle Bus this year. The shuttle will depart Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Bus and Coach Station each day, with an adult ticket costing £5 and a Group Day Ticket (for up to five people) costing £15. Meaning you can make your way to Ashton Court Estate with ease again. Car parking tickets are now on sale also, allowing balloon spotters to plan ahead.
To purchase your tickets head here.
Stagecoach Shuttle Bus service timings
Thursday 10 August 2023
Departures from Bristol Temple Meads – 1130 and at frequent intervals until 2100
Departures from Bristol Bus and Coach Station – 1140 and at frequent intervals until 2110
Departures from Balloon Fiesta – 1200 and at frequent intervals until 2330
Friday 11 August 2023
Departures from Bristol Temple Meads – 1000 and at frequent intervals until 1900
Departures from Bristol Bus and Coach Station – 1010 and at frequent intervals until 1910
Departures from Balloon Fiesta – 1030 and at frequent intervals until 2130
Saturday 12 August 2023
Departures from Bristol Temple Meads – 1000 and at frequent intervals until 2100
Departures from Bristol Bus and Coach Station – 1010 and at frequent intervals until 2110
Departures from Balloon Fiesta – 1200 and at frequent intervals until 2330
Sunday 13 August 2023
Departures from Bristol Temple Meads – 1000 and at frequent intervals until 1900
Departures from Bristol Bus and Coach Station – 1010 and at frequent intervals until 1910
Departures from Balloon Fiesta – 1030 and at frequent intervals until 2130
Stagecoach Shuttle Bus service pricing
Adult Day = £5 plus booking fee
Group Day (up to five passengers) = £15 plus booking fee
Children under 16 = Free of charge when travelling with an adult (two children per adult)