Bringing the magic of ballooning directly to classrooms across the city, ahead of the main event on the 8 to 10 August, schools can apply to host a tethered hot air balloon before the summer holidays.
The initiative, designed to complement the curriculum, will see hot air balloons set up in school fields throughout July, offering pupils the chance to get up close to a real balloon, meet pilots, and learn about the science, engineering and teamwork behind ballooning.
The Roadshow aims to make ballooning more accessible and inclusive for children across the city and create opportunities for young people to engage with one of Bristol’s most iconic events and heritage sports.
The Fiesta has also confirmed the return of its charity partner for a second consecutive year, Love Squared. The Bristol-based charity provides SEN and mental health support, education and mentoring to children and young people across Bristol and the South West.
Love Squared will be on-site at the Fiesta, using the platform to raise awareness of their vital work and drive critical fundraising efforts. With hundreds of thousands of attendees expected over the three-day event, the charity is calling on local residents to consider volunteering in the run-up and during the Fiesta weekend to help maximise their reach and connect with more visitors.
Ben Hardy, executive director, Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, commented: “Our community programme continues to be a key part of our mission to bring ballooning to communities across Bristol. The School Tether Roadshow aims to capture the imagination of children, teachers and parents alike – and we can’t wait to inspire the balloonists and engineers of the future. We’re also thrilled to welcome back Love Squared, whose work in our city is nothing short of life changing.”
Ben Sweet, children’s services lead, Love Squared added: “We are very excited to be coming back for a second year as the Fiesta’s charity partner to re-connect with all the wonderful organisers and attendees. The Fiesta is an amazing event and a great place to spread the word about our work. We are extremely grateful for all the support we received last year, which helped fund vital mental health services for the area’s young people. We welcome everyone to get involved, be it volunteering, donating, or coming to say hello at our colourful tent!”
The 2025 Bristol International Balloon Fiesta will take place over three days from Friday 8 to Sunday 10 August in the rolling hills of Ashton Court Estate. The Fiesta will include two Night Glow events, taking place consecutively on Friday and Saturday evening.
The 2025 community programme, forms part of an ambitious five-year plan to help the Fiesta soar to new heights as it heads towards its 50th anniversary in 2028, and to future-proof the event to keep the spectacle alive for generations to come.
Applications for the School Tether Roadshow are open now and close on Friday 30 May 2025. There is no fee to participate, but applicants are asked to complete the form with as much detail as possible regarding space available to host a balloon. All tether events will be subject to weather conditions, but the programme will offer suitable alternative arrangements if a full tether isn’t possible.
For more information and to apply, visit https://www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk/get-involved/community-launches
To find out more about Love Squared and how to apply to volunteer for the charity this August, please visit www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk/get-involved/charity-partnerships
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