Summer’s rolling in, and we all know what that means… longer days, sunnier evenings (hopefully), and the return of festival season in all its glittery, feel-good glory. From music in the fields to tasty bites and laid-back vibes, nothing beats the energy of a great British festival.
Well… almost nothing.
This year, Virgin Balloon Flights is joining five incredible festivals across the UK. But we’re not just there for the food stalls and funky wellies. We’re lifting off from the festival grounds to give you a view that takes your breath away.
Already got your festival tickets? Planning a day out with a twist? This is your chance to do something truly unforgettable. A balloon flight adds that wow moment to your summer and makes those festival memories even more magical.
Read on to find out which festivals we’re flying from, and how you can join us in the clouds for a summer experience like no other.
There’s something electric about a festival. The music, the buzz, the outfits, the colours... it’s a full-on sensory celebration. And when you see it all from above, it becomes something even more extraordinary.
A balloon flight gives you a completely different view of the action. Spot the stages, the crowds, the winding paths – all from the calm and quiet of the sky. It’s the best seat in the house, hands down.
Festival flights are ideal for first-timers who want to start strong, and seasoned balloon fans looking for a fresh perspective.
Then there’s the magic of a mass ascent. Dozens of balloons taking off around the same time, drifting gracefully in different directions. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and something you have to see to believe. Watching other balloons float with you makes the whole experience feel like a dreamy, slow-motion dance.
It’s also the perfect escape. While the ground is buzzing, you’re rising above it all – enjoying a moment of calm and wonder. It’s still part of the festival, just with a serious upgrade.
This is festival season, the Virgin way. A celebration of life, colour, and adventure, taken higher.
🎈 Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
When: 8–10 August 2025
Where: Ashton Court Estate, Bristol, BS41 9JN
Pilot: Mark Simmons
Vibe: Sky-high / Spectacular / Uplifting
The most breathtaking festival for fans of flight and giant floating rainbows. Expect night glows, live music, funfairs, and hundreds of balloons filling the sky.
Family friendly? Absolutely—spacious, colourful, and great for kids of all ages.
Why it’s special:
Bristol is the big one. As the UK’s largest ballooning event, there’s nothing quite like lifting off to the sound of cheering crowds with dozens of balloons rising all around you. Pure balloon magic.
How to book:
Give us a call to book your vouchers and flight. We have baskets for 16 and 22 passengers, with morning and evening flights available, weather permitting. Entry to the festival is free—just pay for parking on the day.
🎈 Telford Balloon Fiesta
When: 22–24 August 2025
Where: Telford Town Park, Shropshire, TF3 4EP
Pilot: Gavin Chadwick
Vibe: Fun / Family-friendly / Relaxed
A fun-filled favourite with easy access, open spaces and a fantastic local vibe. Expect food stalls, live music, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.
Why it’s special:
Take off from one of the UK’s best town parks and enjoy panoramic views of the Shropshire countryside. A wonderful way to end the summer on a high.
How to book:
Get flight vouchers online and call us to book the flight. Baskets hold 16 passengers. Morning and evening flights, weather dependent. Festival entry is free—just pay for parking.
🎈 Somerset Balloons & Tunes Festival
When: 11–12 July 2025
Where: Bath & West Showground, Somerset, BA4 6QN
Pilot: Alex Harvey
Vibe: Musical / Scenic / Laid-back
Set against rolling West Country hills, this easy-going festival blends live music, street food, and summer chill.
Why it’s special:
Float above green fields and festival beats, with sweeping views of Somerset. Relaxed, uplifting, and unforgettable.
How to book:
Get flight vouchers online and call us to book the flight. Baskets hold 12 passengers. Morning and evening flights, weather dependent. Festival entry tickets are separate and required for admission.
🎈 Dorset Balloons & Beats Festival
When: 15–17 August 2025
Where: The Gables, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8HX
Pilot: Alex Harvey
Vibe: Coastal / Vibrant / Unique
Live acts, delicious street food, and a location close to the coast make this a summer standout.
Why it’s special:
Lift off with festival energy below and the Dorset coastline in view. A unique way to soak in the sights and sounds.
How to book:
Get flight vouchers online and call us to book the flight. Baskets hold 12 passengers. Morning and evening flights, weather dependent. Festival tickets required separately.
🎈 Market Harborough Balloons & Tunes
When: 5-7 September 2025
Where: Market Harborough Showground, Leicestershire, LE16 7QB
Pilot: Peter Philpott
Vibe: Charming / Peaceful / Heartwarming
A feel-good festival that brings community, music, and countryside charm together in one lovely spot.
Why it’s special:
Drift above this quaint market town and take in the beautiful Leicestershire scenery. It’s a gentle flight with a warm summer feel.
How to book:
Get flight vouchers online and call us to book the flight. Baskets hold 16 passengers. Morning and evening flights, weather dependent. Festival entry tickets are required separately.
Booking is simple, most festival flights can be booked online. For Bristol, please call us directly to reserve your place.
If your flight is cancelled due to weather, don’t worry! You can rebook at any of our national launch sites using the same voucher and time slot (morning or evening), or wait for the next festival.
Your booking confirmation includes everything you need to know about meeting your pilot and getting in touch. Just like our regular flights, our crew will follow your journey and bring you back to the launch site after landing.
There’s nothing quite like a festival and there’s nothing like seeing one from the sky. Mass ascents, stunning views, and a peaceful drift above the buzz below come together for a truly unforgettable moment.
These balloon flights add something extra special to your summer. Dance in the fields, soak up the music, then rise above it all for a sky-high adventure like no other.
Spots are limited and fill up fast. So if you’re ready to do something amazing this festival season, now’s the time to hop in the basket.
Let’s take life higher this summer.
We’ll see you in the field.
