News / bristol balloon fiesta
Welcome to the Greatest Show at the Bristol Balloon Fiesta
It really was The Greatest Show at the Bristol Balloon Fiesta’s first nightglow on Thursday evening, which saw balloons tethered in the central arena at Ashton Gate firing their burners in time to the music which had a particular slant towards theme from the Hugh Jackman-starring theme.
The popular annual display this year had music from across the decades to mark the Fiesta’s 40th anniversary, including a medley of songs from Michael Jackson.
But it was songs from The Greatest Showman including This is the Greatest Show and This is Me that were the most popular choices from the Heart FM team who had put together the playlist.
is needed now More than ever
The nightglow and the fireworks that preceded it made up for no mass ascent of hot air balloons taking to the air on Thursday due to wind.
Fiesta organisers postponed making the decision as to whether to fly for as long a possible on the first night of the Fiesta, and also had to choose not to fly on Friday morning due to the possibility of rain.
Special shape balloons have still been tethering in the arena, however, including Rupert the Bear.

Rupert the Bear dabbing to his adoring fans – photo courtesy of Bristol Balloon Fiesta
The next mass ascent is due to take place at 6pm on Friday; with the only other nightglow and fireworks display scheduled for 9pm on Saturday.
Main photo by Simon Boddy