Unfortunately, due to current social distancing guidelines, this year’s Bristol International Balloon Fiesta will not be taking place this year.

But don’t despair as organisers have created two unique events for you to enjoy this August; if you can’t come to the balloons, the balloons will come to you instead!

Fiesta Flypast
Introducing the Bristol Balloon Fiesta Flypast, a chance to see beautiful balloons of all shapes, sizes and designs, flying over the city one August morning!  The date is yet to be decided as the event is dependent on weather conditions, plus is also a closely guarded secret, but will take place between 1st-14th August.

Bristolians are invited to watch the balloons from the safety of their own windows, doorsteps and gardens.

Virtual Nightglow: Saturday 8th August
There will also be a chance to see the Balloon Fiesta Nightglow this year in the form of a virtual event on the evening of Saturday 8th August.

Organisers have teamed up with BBC Radio Bristol and will be staging this event with extra special additions and a soundtrack produced to lift the spirits of the city!

Social distancing and safety guidelines
Due to current social distancing guidelines, people are prohibited from gathering in parks or open spaces to watch the balloons, nor can organisers invite people to see the balloons take off or land; this is in order to protect pilots and the public.

The location of the events will also remain private in order to adhere to government guidelines and Bristol audiences are urged to stay away from public spaces and protect the city from incurring any surge in Covid-19 as a result of the event.

For more information about the Bristol Balloon Fiesta Flypast and Virtual Nightglow, please click here.