News / bristol balloon fiesta
Balloon Fiesta 2024 reduced to three-day event
Four days of family fun is becoming three days of family fun at this summer’s Bristol Balloon Fiesta.
Due to a number of different issues from poor weather to supply chain challenges, Fiesta organisers say that “something must give” if Europe’s largest ballooning event is to continue for many years to come.
So the decision has been taken to shorten the 2024 event from August 9 to 11, starting on a Friday rather than on the usual Thursday, with two night glows on Friday and Saturday evenings.
is needed now More than ever
After the success of similar events in recent years, a ‘Fiesta Week’ from August 5 to 8 will – weather permitting – see hot air balloons launching from locations across Bristol.
Organisers say that the new format will allow them “to reimagine the event, refocussing on what makes this event so special – the celebration of Bristol and its heritage links to the remarkable world of hot air ballooning”.
Plans are for the mass ascents to continue to take place from the launch field in Ashton Court but with more attention given to the rest of the Fiesta site, with “a revitalised vision (that) will enable visitors (to) experience the magic of ballooning beyond the scheduled mass ascents and night glows”.
A Balloon Fiesta spokesperson said: “Over the coming months, organisers will announce new features and programme highlights but in the meantime are calling on the city to help write this next chapter that will protect the future of the Fiesta.
“Visitors can support the event by putting the date firmly in their diary and purchasing their car parking tickets in advance.
“Partners and brands can come onboard to further develop the entertainment programme that showcases this novel and colourful event and its true sense of adventure.
“Businesses can join the fabric of this event through sponsorship to not only support the Fiesta but protect this iconic event that has a significant impact on the region’s visitor economy and its international profile.”
Main photo: Martin Booth
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