The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta will return to the rolling hills of Ashton Court this summer, with changes afoot to overcome recent challenges and allow this iconic event to soar to new heights.
The event has been a steadfast in the Bristol calendar for almost five decades, but in recent years has been affected just like the rest of the economy. Poor weather, covid, rising cost of living, inflation, challenges in the supply chain have added to financial pressures.
Despite this the not-for-profit organisation are committed to the Fiesta’s founding constitution. To offer a free event for the city, that celebrates Bristol, supports the region’s economy, and brings the magic of hot air ballooning to everyone.
The commitment was made even more prevalent following an economic impact survey carried out last year which identified the event as the city’s most valuable outdoor event – injecting a staggering £22.2 million into Bristol’s economy in 2023 alone. £14.7 million of which was new expenditure in the city that would not have occurred without the event taking place.
While organisers are dedicated to protecting the event for years to come, something must give. To reduce operational costs, the 2024 event will take place over three days from Friday 9 to Sunday 11 August in an adjustment to the structure of the event programme.
The Fiesta will still include two Night Glow events, which will now take place consecutively on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Organisers have also announced an extension of the event. Between Monday 5 and Thursday 8 August, ‘Fiesta Week’ will see a fleet of hot air balloons popping up in local communities across the city in a series of local launches.
The new format will also allow organisers 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.
While the central arena will still set the stage for over 100 hot air balloons to take flight if conditions allow, more attention will be given to the outskirts of the launch field. A revitalised vision will enable visitors experience the magic of ballooning beyond the scheduled mass ascents and Night Glows.
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.
For more information visit www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk
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