Bristol Balloon Fiesta Lights Up the Skies in Spectacular Style
It’s been another unforgettable day at the 47th Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, where the skies above Ashton Court were transformed into a canvas of colour, light, and music. From dawn until late evening, crowds gathered to witness the magic of ballooning — and the event certainly delivered.
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The day began with the first mass ascent, as dozens of hot air balloons lifted gracefully into the morning sky. Special-shaped favourites like Oggy the Friendly Dragon, the Disney Up house, and Astro the Alien delighted spectators young and old. Cameras clicked, children pointed, and for many, it was a chance to see these giants up close before they floated off over the city and countryside. One balloon even made unexpected headlines when it gently clipped the roof of a school in Knowle West. Thankfully, only minor tile damage was reported, no one was injured, and the pilot was able to land safely in the school field.
By afternoon, the fiesta grounds were buzzing. Families explored food stalls offering everything from strawberries dipped in chocolate to hearty street food, while in the arena, tethered balloons stood proudly for visitors to admire. A new attraction for 2025, “In the Clouds,” gave people the chance to step inside a real inflated balloon and relive the first Bristol balloon flight from 1967, complete with special effects and archive footage.
But it was the night glow that stole the show. As darkness fell, dozens of balloons were tethered side by side, their burners flickering to life in perfect time with a soundtrack curated by BBC Radio Bristol. The crowd fell into a hushed awe as the flames illuminated the balloons like giant lanterns, creating waves of light that pulsed to the beat of the music. The idea for this spectacle dates back to an effort to reduce disturbance to wildlife, when quieter “whisper burners” were developed — but it has since grown into one of the festival’s most beloved traditions.
For some, the night held personal meaning. Jo Vickers from Wedmore attended with her children the day after her father passed away, imagining the balloons rising “up to heaven.” She spoke warmly about how the fiesta connects communities, saying it’s “just so special” to see children running free and to feel proud of what the South West has to offer.
The late mass ascent was cancelled due to strong winds, but the magic of the night glow more than made up for it. From the first flame to the final fade of music, the event reminded everyone why Bristol’s balloon fiesta remains one of the UK’s most iconic summer gatherings — free to attend, rich in atmosphere, and full of moments that linger long after the balloons have landed.
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