Bristol confirms its position as a world centre for hot-air ballooning this week as pilots gather in the city for the 35th International Balloon Fiesta.
More than 150 balloons are set to grace the skies over the city over the next few days for the free event at Ashton Court Estate. Over the years the fiesta has become an integral part of Bristol’s promotion as a tourist and cultural destination – so much so that the sight of balloons floating gracefully above the Clifton Suspension Bridge has achieved iconic status.
Photo courtesy of Bristol 24-7 www.bristol247.com
With about half a million visitors expected throughout the festival, it is also a major boost for the economy and acts as a showcase for its ballooning industry, which includes manufacturers such as Cameron Balloons and flight companies like Bailey Balloons. The event features four days of hot-air balloon displays, including the famous night glow, and appearances by the Red Arrows.
A new bus service and camping area set up in a new bid to deal with the travel congestion that has dogged the event over recent years.
The programme includes:
Tomorrow
The fiesta opens at 12pm with a balloon tethering display. The unveiling of the special shaped balloons will take place at 6pm, followed by the night glow at 9.15pm to a backdrop of fireworks.
Friday
The first mass ascent takes place at 6am with the evening ascent starting at 6pm. At 4pm the Royal Air Force Red Arrows will perform above Ashton Court.
Saturday
Saturday is the busiest day. Along with the 6am and 6pm mass ascents, the all-female Breitling Wingwalkers will take to the skies for performances at 12pm and 5pm. There will be appearances from the EXIT Parachute Display Team, a Spitfire memorial Flight and display by the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team throughout the day and the evening. The Saturday programme is finished with the night glow at 9pm.
Sunday
Parabatix Air Displays will perform throughout the day. A cross between a parachute and an ultra-light aeroplane the Parabatix are capable of incredible twists and turns and will be taking to the skies at 12.30pm, 2.45pm and 5.45pm. The last mass ascent of the fiesta will take place at 6pm.
For the first time in the event’s history, organisers will offer an official campsite, set within walking distance of the main arena.
The campsite opens tomorrow at 12pm and closes on Monday at 10am. Bookings can made with Campaign Ninja by visiting: www.campingninja.com/
Meanwhile, a new Balloon Shuttle bus will run every 10 minutes across the four days from specially-marked bus stops at Temple Meads and throughout the city centre. Prices start from £2.50 for adult single fares (£2 child single). Fiesta goers travelling from outside of Bristol can buy an exclusive all-day balloon pass valid on most First bus services across the South West, including the Balloon Shuttle. This ticket costs £7, or £15 for a family pass.
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