Starting on the 8th August, Bristol Balloon Fiesta lights up the skies over Ashton Court, with twice‑daily mass ascents and night glow displays that draw crowds from across the UK. It’s a three‑day festival packed with opportunity, not only to watch balloons, but to pair the spectacle with unforgettable local experiences. Here’s your guide to making the most of the spectacular Balloon Fiesta week, all bookable right now on Yuup.
Balloon watching and coffee making
Add a hands-on, flavour-filled experience to your weekend with a barista workshop. Get up nice and early to catch Sunday mornings ascent, then get your energy back with this creative, caffeinated workshop at one of Bristol’s most respected coffee roasters. A perfect city-based counterpoint to balloon-spotting mornings.
Book a barista workshop: Sunday 10th August, 1pm
Catch the balloons from the water
When the Fiesta crowds pack Ashton Court, the harbour is a peaceful counterpoint to catch the flight. Join a paddleboarding harbourside adventure, learn the basics and glide past Bristol’s historic waterfront on a refreshing journey with SUP Bristol. Top tip - book on to an early evening slot to catch the evening ascent from the water!
Book a paddleboarding adventure: Friday 8th August, slots available all day
Pottery painting at Trylla
Feeling creative? Pottery painting at Trylla is a relaxed, feel-good experience that’s perfect for winding down after the fiesta or keeping dry if the weather turns. Head out of Ashton court and along North Street to find this funky Bedminster studio.
Book pottery painting: Saturday 9th August, 11:30am
Hot air balloon flight over Bristol
Experience the festival from above with a hot air balloon flight, drifting serenely over Clifton Suspension Bridge, SS Great Britain and the harbourside into the countryside. It’s the ultimate Balloon Fiesta experience, and dates are running during Fiesta Fortnight.
Screen print your own balloon-inspired tote or tee
Celebrate the fiesta in style by designing your very own balloon-themed tote bag or t-shirt at this screen printing workshop. Whether you bring your own balloon sketch or pick from ready-made templates, you’ll leave with a very Bristolian souvenir to remember the weekend by.
Book a screenprinting workshop: Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th August, 2:30pm
Cider drinking in St Philips
Perfect for a cold drink after an afternoon in Ashton Court, make a pit-stop in St Philips for a cider tasting flight at The Cider Box. Perfect if you’re getting the train to Temple Meads, as The Cider Box is tucked just behind the station.
Book a cider tasting flight: Saturday 9th August, 2pm & 4pm
Watch the magical nightglow
No Balloon Fiesta weekend is complete without experiencing the Nightglow. Held on Friday and Saturday night, the display sees tethered balloons light up in time with music, like a glowing orchestra in the night sky. Why not start your evening with a wine and cheese flight from North Street’s KASK, before heading down to Ashton Court for the 9pm display?
Book a wine and cheese flight: availability all weekend, 8th-10th August
Whether you're watching balloons ascend at dawn from Ashton Court, gliding across the harbour, or getting crafty in town, Balloon Fiesta week is the perfect time to pair sky-high awe with unique local experiences. Treat yourself to more than just the balloons, and discover Bristol from all angles this August.
