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Home > Destinations > UK > A Guide to Experiencing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023

A Guide to Experiencing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023

Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023 is one of the most anticipated events in the UK’s social calendar. This four-day annual festival of hot air balloons attracts over 130 000 visitors each year, making it a must-visit event for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience. The breathtaking sight of over 100 hot air balloons taking off to the vibrant atmosphere of the night glow is something that everyone must see.

Moreover, it’s a feel-good moment to see these dozens of balloons ascend because after all, hot air balloons are quite eco-friendly! In this article, I am going to show exactly what to expect at the 2023 Bristol Balloon Fiesta. In this guide, I cover everything from the best vantage points for watching the balloons to the top local food and drink spots. So whether you’re a first-timer or a regular visitor, get ready to make the most of your time at the 2023 Bristol Balloon Fiesta!

What is Bristol Balloon Fiesta?

A Guide to Experiencing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023

Bristol Balloon Fiesta is an annual event held in the UK where hot air balloons take to the skies for four days. It’s the largest ballooning event in Europe, attracting pilots and balloon enthusiasts from all over the world. Best of all, you don’t have to pay to attend, making this one of the largest free events in Europe! It is one of the largest free events in the UK and Europe Moreover, the event has been held annually since 1979 and has become a significant part of Bristol’s identity! Needless to say, the fiesta is a celebration of ballooning and is an opportunity for people of all ages to watch these colourful balloons ascend into the sky.

The Bristol Balloon Fiesta features various events and activities that take place throughout the four days. Balloons take off from the Ashton Court Estate at dawn and dusk, with the night glow event being a particular highlight. The night glow is a spectacular display where the balloons are inflated, and the burners are fired up, illuminating the balloons in a mesmerising light display.

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History of Bristol Balloon Fiesta

A Guide to Experiencing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023
Image: Tracy Ward Photography, 2023

The first Bristol Balloon Fiesta was held in 1979 at Ashton Court Estate. The event was created to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the first manned flight in England, which took place in Bristol. The first fiesta attracted 27 balloons and around 2000 visitors, but it has grown significantly since then.

The Bristol Balloon Fiesta has become a significant part of the city’s identity and is now one of the largest and most popular balloon festivals in the world. The fiesta has attracted some of the most skilled balloon pilots and enthusiasts from all over the world, making it a truly international event.

Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023 Dates & Location

A Guide to Experiencing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023

The 2023 Bristol Balloon Fiesta will take place from Thursday, August 10 to Sunday, August 13. The event will be held at Ashton Court Estate, which is a stunning location located just a few miles from Bristol city centre.

Ashton Court Estate is one of the largest parks in the South West of England, covering over 850 acres of land. In fact, the estate has been a favourite location for balloonists for many years due to its natural beauty and proximity to the city.

How to Get to Bristol Balloon Fiesta

A Guide to Experiencing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023

There are several ways to get to the Bristol Balloon Fiesta, including public transport, driving, and cycling. If you’re travelling by public transport, the easiest way to get to the fiesta is by using the shuttle bus service which runs from the city centre to the event.

If you’re driving, there is ample parking available onsite at Ashton Court Estate. However, it’s important to note that parking can be limited. Therefore, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot. For those cycling, there are dedicated cycle paths that lead to the event and bike parking is available onsite.

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Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023 Schedule

A Guide to Experiencing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023

The Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023 schedule of events is yet to be confirmed, but visitors can expect a range of activities and events throughout the four days. Typically, the balloons take off from Ashton Court Estate at dawn and dusk followed by the night glow event.

There are also various entertainment options available throughout the day. For instance, there is live music, food and drink stalls, and fairground rides. The full schedule of events will be released closer to the time and visitors are encouraged to check the official website for the latest information.

Things to Do at Bristol Balloon Fiesta

A Guide to Experiencing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023

The Bristol Balloon Fiesta offers plenty of things to see and do. For this reason, it’s an ideal event for families and visitors of all ages. Watching the balloons take off and land is undoubtedly the main attraction. However, there are also plenty of other activities and events to keep visitors entertained.

Some of the other things to do at the fiesta include watching the night glow event and taking a balloon ride. Additionally, you can browse the various food and drink stalls and enjoy live music and entertainment. There are also plenty of fairground rides and activities for children, making it a great family day out.

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Tips for Attending Bristol Balloon Fiesta

A Guide to Experiencing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023

Attending the Bristol Balloon Fiesta can be an overwhelming experience. However, with a little planning, you can make the most of your visit. With that said, here are some tips for attending the fiesta. Firstly, arrive early, because the event can get busy! You don’t want the best spots to be so overcrowded that you can’t fit in. Secondly, it’s important to dress appropriately. This is because the fiesta takes place outdoors and it can get cold in the evenings. Additionally, do bring some cash along.

While some food and drink stalls may accept card payments, others won’t. Better safe than sorry. Also, try to stay hydrated. In fact, the Ashton Courthouse has a few onsite water fountains. Lastly, be patient because the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023 can get busy!

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Best Places to Watch the Balloons

A Guide to Experiencing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023

Several viewpoints around Ashton Court Estate offer great views of the balloons. These include the Main Arena, Clifton Suspension Bridge and Troopers Hill. The main arena at Ashton Court Estate offers an excellent view of the balloons taking off and landing. On the other hand, Clifton Suspension Bridge offers a spectacular view of the balloons flying over the city. Located east of Bristol, Troopers Hill also offers a great view of the balloons as they take off and fly over the city.

Accommodation Options for Bristol Balloon Fiesta

A Guide to Experiencing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023

There are plenty of accommodation options available for those visiting the Bristol Balloon Fiesta. Best of all, these options range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the most popular ones even include camping at Ashton Court Estate!

The closest and most luxurious hotel near Ashton Court Estate that stands out from the rest is Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel. It’s a luxury 4-star hotel with a spa and it’s located 9 minutes from the estate. Apart from this, the hotel simply screams English refinement. This is a unique experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the festival atmosphere.

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Balloon Rides at Bristol Balloon Fiesta

A Guide to Experiencing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023

If you are looking for a truly unforgettable experience at the fiesta, then book a balloon ride. These rides offer a unique perspective of the festival and the surrounding area with stunning views of the city and countryside. Equally important, the balloon rides are subject to availability. Therefore, it’s advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Food and Drink at Bristol Balloon Fiesta

A Guide to Experiencing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023

The Bristol Balloon Fiesta features a range of food and drink stalls. These stalls offer everything from traditional British cuisine to international street food. Some of the food and drink options available at the fiesta include burgers, hot dogs, pizza, ice cream, and beer. There are also plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available.r

If you prefer something a little more upscale, there are also pop-up restaurants and bars available.

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Be My Balloon-tine at the Bristol Balloon Fiesta?

A Guide to Experiencing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2023

The 2023 Bristol Balloon Fiesta is set to be one of the most spectacular events in the UK’s social calendar. With so much to see and do, it’s important to plan your trip to make the most of your time at the fiesta. Ultimately, this guide has everything you need to know to experience the 2023 Bristol Balloon Fiesta to the fullest.

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Hi there! I’m Megan, an absolute lover of words, literature, books, stories, anything that has to do with writing, reading, imagining. Because of my passion, I decided to make writing my life, and with that, I decided to study BA Languages at the University of Pretoria and am happy to report that I made my dream come true by graduating and becoming a travel writer. During my final year I wrote for my campus newspaper, the PDBY, where I learned to trust my writing voice. Now, as I sit here writing my petit little bio, I feel more in love with writing than I’ve ever been. Turns out, like much of my personality, my writing can equally showcase both the calm and put-together, as well as the crazy.