Fun & Interesting Facts
Over the years, the Fiesta has seen a variety of uniquely shaped balloons. These have included characters and objects like a giant Minion, a Superbike, and even a flying house, making each year's event a surprise and delight for spectators of all ages.
About
Take life higher at Europe's biggest hot air balloon festival and go up, up and away for a Bristol balloon ride you will never forget. Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is back for 2024 and set to be bigger and better than ever before! Witness unforgettable mass ascents, where a hundred or more hot air balloons take to the skies.
🟢 Dates have been confirmed for the next Bristol Balloon Fiesta.
Bristol Balloon Fiesta Information
🎈 Will Virgin Balloon Flights be at the Bristol Balloon Fiesta this year?
Yes! Virgin Balloon Flights will be at the Bristol Balloon Fiesta.
🗓️ When is the Bristol Balloon Fiesta?
9th - 11th August, 2024.
If you're flying with Virgin Balloon Flights
Meet Times
PLEASE NOTE: These are only approximate times and can vary by an hour each way, depending on weather conditions. Your exact meeting time will be given on your Flight Line when you call to check your flight status.
Morning Flights - 6am approx.
Evening Flights - 6pm approx.
It is very important that you arrive at the meeting point for your flight on time, so you can be checked in and receive the necessary safety briefing before flying. If you are late and miss this briefing, you may not be able to fly. Please plan your route in advance and allow plenty of time to get there, keeping in mind the large amount of traffic there will be attending the event.
If you miss your flight because you are late or do not attend, your voucher will become invalid.
Call Your Flight Information Line
The Flight Information Line for our Bristol Balloon Fiesta flights is 01225 435505.
You will need to call this number to find out if your flight is going ahead and if so, where and when you will need to meet your balloon flight crew. Make sure you listen very carefully to the entire message.
Morning Flights - Call the flight information line at 11pm the night before.
Evening Flights - Call the flight information line at 2pm the same day as your flight.
Who Will My Pilot Be?
As per your booking confirmation, your pilot will either be Nobby Simmons, Mike Petteford or Steve Thomas.
What Do I need To Bring?
Your booking confirmation, flight vouchers, camera, a bit of cash (in case you want to buy the in-flight photographs) and a spirit for adventure!
What Should I Wear?
We recommend clothes suitable for a walk in the country for the weather on the day you are flying. Comfortable layers are a good idea, plus a cap or other headwear to protect from the warmth of the burners. Keep in mind you may be walking in wet, muddy or dewy fields, so sensible, sturdy shoes or trainers are essential.
Passengers are also invited to help with the inflation and deflation of the balloon. While completely voluntary, most people do love to get involved so we recommend you choose clothes you don't mind getting a bit dirty. (So no designer gear, flip flops or high heels!)
Other Hot Air Balloon Festivals
We are taking part in many hot air balloon festivals this year. If you are keen to take to the skies with us at another balloon fiesta, or you're searching for ideas on the perfect family day out, check out our ultimate guide to UK hot air balloon festivals.
If the dates for this festival don’t quite work for you and you're looking to plan the dates for a memorable balloon packed weekend outing, check out our quick guide to the UK balloon festival calendar and explore fiestas happening throughout the year.