Bristol is all aglow as the Balloon Fiesta lands

When: 9th – 12th August 2012

Where: Ashton Court Estate, Long Ashton, Bristol, BS41 9JN

£: Free (parking charges apply though)

What is it?

The 34th Bristol Balloon Fiesta is one of the UK’s top five outdoor events.  Founded in 1978, the fiesta has become an icon for Bristol, as synonymous with the city as Brunel’s famous Suspension Bridge. Held in the rolling hills of Ashton Court on the edge of Bristol, it is a popular free event, attracting around half a million people from across the country and beyond. The event takes place over four days, offering plenty of entertainment for the whole family.

Over 100 balloons of all shapes and sizes provide an unforgettable spectacle as they take to the sky in mass ascents each morning and evening from Friday to Sunday. Some of the largest crowds are drawn to the famous Night Glows on Thursday and Saturday evenings, when the balloons tether in the main arena and light up in sequence to music, like giant light bulbs.

This year will see a new addition to the Fiesta schedule as the Friday evening will showcase the SWIP Team, a pair of single-seat airplanes that have firework trails and coloured smoke flying from their wings, to create an unforgettable night-time performance. There will also be local and international food stalls, a fun fair, a craft fair and other entertainment to complete the fun-packed festival.

More info: www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk