News / bristol international balloon fiesta
Hot air balloons take to skies for Balloon Fiesta 2026 lift-off
Stunning clear skies and a perfect breeze meant the official launch of the 48th edition of Bristol International Balloon Fiesta could go ahead as planned on Monday morning.
There were around a dozen colourful balloons that lifted off from College Green for the yearly launch event, officially kickstarting the countdown to the much-loved festival.
Bristol24/7 had the opportunity to take to the skies in the Cameron Balloons basket which set off shortly after 6am with a roar of flames.
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As balloons drifted from the city centre across the Floating Harbour to Ashton Court Estate, people on streets, balconies and windows below stopped to take in the spectacular sight as they woke up to the sight of hot air balloons dotting the skyline.
Organisers promise this year’s fiesta will be “an unforgettable celebration of ballooning, local culture and community spirit”
The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is set to return to Ashton Court Estate from August 7-9, aiming to “celebrate the city and its heritage links to the remarkable world of hot air ballooning”.
Organisers promise 2026’s programming features even more ways for visitors to experience the fiesta, with family entertainment, immersive heritage displays, and science and engineering challenges.
The “heartbeat” of the fiesta remains its mass ascents, with balloons of all shapes and sizes from across the UK, as well as Belgium, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Germany, Mexico and the USA, set to rise over the green space at sunrise and sunset.
Every launch will be tracked by live flight control in partnership with Great Western Railway.
Spectators can follow along in real-time via a giant screen from the edge of the launch field, or watch online.
As day turns to night, tethered balloons will once again light up in sync to a musical soundtrack for the famous night glows.
For more information and details of the full event programme, visit www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk
All photos: Rob Browne
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