# Bristol International Balloon Fiesta 2026 > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/bristol-international-balloon-fiesta-2026 > Updated: 2026-08-07T04:47:33.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta returned to Ashton Court Estate for a three‑day free festival in early August 2026. Organisers promoted more than 120 hot‑air balloons, including special‑shaped balloons such as Astro the Alien and a 120‑foot Smiley Scarecrow, and scheduled twice‑daily mass ascents at 6 am and 6 pm, plus two nightly “Night Glow” displays. Forecasts called for mostly dry weather with temperatures up to 27 °C. When the event unfolded from 7‑9 August, over 100 balloons participated and tens of thousands of visitors attended. The programme featured family yoga, historic balloon displays, live music on the Moon Stage, a children’s stage, and a demonstration by the RAF Falcons Display Team. Night Glows attracted large crowds, and the festival’s attractions, including the Thatchers Balloon Bar and a BBC Radio Bristol soundtrack, were well‑received despite quick‑filling parking. Overall, the fiesta proceeded as planned, drawing significant public interest and delivering the scheduled ascents, entertainment, and charitable activities. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-07: Bristol International Balloon Fiesta draws tens of thousands of visitors The 48th Bristol Balloon Fiesta at Ashton Court featured 100+ balloons, mass ascents at 6 am/6 pm, Night Glows, live music and RAF Falcons, drawing tens of thousands of free‑entry visitors. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bristol-international-balloon-fiesta-draws-tens-of-thousands-of-visitors ### 2026-08-04: Bristol International Balloon Fiesta draws crowds in August 2026 The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta runs 7‑9 Aug 2026 at Ashton Court, showcasing 120+ balloons, special shapes and nightly Night Glows, with mostly dry weather forecast and sold‑out tickets for the light‑ 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bristol-international-balloon-fiesta-draws-crowds-in-august-2026 --- Cite as: Bristol International Balloon Fiesta 2026. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/bristol-international-balloon-fiesta-2026