What is the name of the annual hot-air balloon festival held in Bristol, England?

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is the annual hot-air balloon festival held in Bristol, England.

The event began in 1979 and developed into one of Europe’s best-known balloon gatherings. It is held at Ashton Court Estate, a large historic park overlooking Bristol. Mass ascents, night-glow displays and special-shaped balloons are among its familiar attractions.

The Bristol fiesta is distinct from Spain’s European Balloon Festival in Igualada and Japan’s Saga International Balloon Fiesta. Its location also gives it a recognizable local tradition: balloons often launch from or gather over the Ashton Court area, while weather conditions determine whether individual ascents can proceed. As with all balloon festivals, wind, visibility and rain can affect the schedule even when crowds and pilots are ready.