News / bristol balloon fiesta
Balloon Fiesta to celebrate city’s ‘unsung heroes’ in community-based flights
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta organisers have launched a quest for “local superstars” to take to the skies in a series of hot air balloon rides.
The team behind the summer spectacle are looking for the city’s “unsung heroes” to be flown in hot air balloons which will take off from specially selected locations.
Between August 5 and 8, ‘Fiesta Week’ will see a fleet of hot air balloons popping up in communities across the city in a series of local morning launches.
It is part of a plan to keep the much-loved spectacle alive for generations to come as the Balloon Fiesta approaches its 50th anniversary in 2028.
2024’s Balloon Fiesta takes place over three days from August 9 to 11 at Ashton Court Estate.
Balloon Fiesta organisers are looking for the city’s “unsung heroes” – photo: Balloon Fiesta
Ben Hardy, executive director of Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, said: “We are excited to announce our very first series of community launches, and our plans to celebrate the city’s superheroes.
“We want to reach out into communities across the city and to the people of Bristol who are at the heart of everything we do and to celebrate these local heroes.
“We are looking for local superstars who dedicate their time to supporting other people, making a positive difference within their communities and who have shown bravery or simply inspired others.”
“To make the experience extra-special we are keen to hear where the people of Bristol and surrounding areas want to see hot air balloons launch from, whether that be school grounds, parks, and community grounds or even wackier spots.
“Wherever the flights begin, this celebration of local superheroes will add an exciting new dimension to the Fiesta and underlines our commitment to engage with Bristol’s diverse communities as much as possible to ensure the iconic event soars to new heights.”
Nominations are being invited for both a local hero and a community launch site, with the deadline for applications on Friday, July 5.
All photos: Bristol Balloon Fiesta
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