Bristol’s iconic International Balloon Fiesta, now in its 36th year, has been launched to the city’s business community with a plea to get involved.
The Fiesta attracts around 500,000 visitors and more than 150 balloons, making it the second-largest event of its kind in the world and one of the UK's top five outdoor events.
Over the years it has become a symbol of Bristol, gaining media coverage across the globe estimated to be worth £2m. 
As a result it being promoted to the region’s businesses as an ideal sponsorship and marketing vehicle. The Fiesta’s 100 Club, launched several years ago, gives businesses unparalleled exposure through a range of profile-raising and branding opportunities.
Last night’s launch, hosted by laws firm Thrings, also named Bristol Above & Beyond charity has the Fiesta’s charity partner for the next two years.
Money raised by Above & Beyond at the Fiesta will specifically support its £6m Golden Gift Appeal to raise funds to transform Bristol cancer centre, the BHOC (Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre) and the Bristol Royal Infirmary (BRI) for millions of patients for generations to come.
Thrings partner Jane Oakland, who chairs the Fiesta’s 2014 organising committee, told the gathering the event was delighted to be teaming up with a charity that meant so much to the Bristol community.
The Fiesta, which this year takes place at Ashton Court between August 7 and Sunday, will feature seven spectacular mass balloon ascents and two night glows. As well as the half a million visitors it will attract around 2,000 balloonists from across the world and 300 traders while its website attracts 7m visitors.
This year it will again by supported by RAF fly pasts including a Spitfire and Typhoon. The 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War will be commemorated at the event – details of how will be announced at a future date.
All this made it a unique marketing opportunity for businesses, said 100 Club chair Sue Atkinson. “There really is nothing like it,” she said.
“You can entertain clients and their families in a unique atmosphere. You are among the balloons and when it comes to the night glows, you have a ringside seat.
Among the benefits for 100 Club members are VIP tickets to the night glows, VIP parking, tickets to the annual dinner and logos on the website and marketing material.
For a full list of benefits go to: http://www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk/content/26/the-benefits.aspx
- Bristol Business News will carry a major feature on the innovation behind the new Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre and Above & Beyond’s role in funding it next week.
