UK Skies Take Flight: The Most Magical Balloon Festivals You’ll Ever See
There’s nothing quite like the sight of colourful hot air balloons drifting across the sky. In the UK, these dreamy spectacles come to life at some of the most exciting hot air balloon festivals UK has to offer. From peaceful countryside take-offs to large-scale light shows, these events offer something for everyone—families, photographers, adventure-seekers, and those simply after a brilliant day out.
This is your insider’s guide to the best ten hot air balloon events in the UK, all of which promise to be unforgettable in 2025.
🎡 1. Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
📍 Ashton Court Estate, Bristol
📅 August 7–10, 2025
The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is without a doubt the most well-known balloon festival in the United Kingdom and the largest hot air balloon gathering in Europe. With over 130 balloons lifting off over four action-packed days, it’s a must-see for anyone wanting the full fiesta experience.
What to Expect:
- Mass ascents at sunrise and sunset
- Iconic Night Glow shows with music and lights
- Live entertainment, street food, and fairground rides
- Free for all visitors
The stunning setting by the Clifton Suspension Bridge adds drama and charm to every balloon flight. It’s truly the crown jewel of British ballooning.
🔗 Check what’s on near you via oravaole.co.uk.
🎈 2. Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta
📍 Castle Howard, North Yorkshire
📅 August 22–25, 2025
This is one of the most notable summer festivals in the North, and it takes place in the stunning grounds of Castle Howard. It brings together balloons, music, and funfair energy in a stunning countryside location.
Festival Highlights:
- Around 50 balloons, including fun-shaped inflatables
- Evening fireworks and Night Glow events
- Food stalls, bars, and headliner performances
- Camping and family-friendly facilities
It’s the perfect long weekend escape with a magical atmosphere that keeps people coming back each year.
🎈 3. Telford Balloon Fiesta
📍 Telford Town Park, Shropshire
📅 May 24–25, 2025
Smaller in scale but big on heart, the Telford Balloon Fiesta is one of the most accessible and family-friendly options around. It offers the joys of ballooning without the crowds of bigger cities.
Things You’ll Love:
- Early morning and evening balloon launches
- Circus acts, stilt walkers, and family shows
- Focus on eco-friendly practices
- Local food vendors and crafts
Telford is also taking steps to go green—making it a responsible choice for today’s eco-conscious visitor.
🎈 4. Balloons in Durham
📍 Durham Racecourse
📅 June 2025 (dates to be confirmed)
This up-and-coming event in Durham offers a relaxed vibe with a local touch. While smaller, it’s growing in popularity for its atmosphere and picturesque flights.
Why It’s Worth a Visit:
- Peaceful balloon ascents
- Light shows and Night Glows
- Artisan food and drink stalls
- Local music and cultural acts
Durham’s undulating hills and historic buildings provide a breathtaking backdrop.
🎈 5. Northampton Balloon Festival
📍 The Racecourse Park, Northampton
📅 August 15–17, 2025
Northampton’s revived balloon festival offers nostalgia and modern fun rolled into one. Once a major UK event, it’s made a strong comeback in recent years.
What’s On:
- Historic and character balloons
- Open-air music and stage performances
- Beer tents, street food, and local crafts
- Free entry for all ages
It’s ideal for families or anyone wanting a traditional festival feel with a lighter crowd.
🎈 6. Scottish Balloon Festival – Perthshire
📍 Scone Palace, Perth
📅 September 2025 (exact dates TBC)
Scotland’s premier balloon event takes off over the majestic Perthshire landscape, offering dramatic flights and rich Scottish culture in one go.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Scenic flights over forests and rivers
- Local whisky tastings and artisan food
- Highland games and live folk music
- A quieter, more scenic experience
Few festivals offer the same mix of natural beauty and cultural depth.
🎈 7. Oswestry Balloon Carnival
📍 Cae Glas Park, Oswestry
📅 August 10–11, 2025
A real community celebration, this carnival is run in partnership with the British Balloon and Airship Club. It brings joyful vibes and hands-on fun for all.
What to Enjoy:
- Tethered rides perfect for first-timers
- Family-friendly activities and workshops
- Acoustic performances and dance shows
- All proceeds go to local charities
Oswestry is perfect if you want a down-to-earth festival with a feel-good mission.
🎈 8. Ireland Hot Air Ballooning Championships (UK-Friendly Travel)
📍 2025 Location: Enniskillen, Northern Ireland
📅 Mid-September
The oldest ballooning competition in Europe, this rotating event in Ireland draws many tourists from the UK each year.
What Sets It Apart:
- Competitive flying and skill showcases
- Stunning countryside and lakeside take-offs
- Welcoming atmosphere for balloon lovers
- Historic ballooning legacy
For those who enjoy a mix of competition and beauty, it’s well worth the trip.
📘 Learn more about ballooning history here.
🎈 9. Wales International Balloon Festival – Llangollen
📍 Llangollen Pavilion
📅 July 2025
With flights over the Welsh valleys and plenty of cultural charm, this festival is quickly carving out a name for itself.
What to Look Forward To:
- Gorgeous sunrise flights over the River Dee
- Welsh music, food, and crafts
- Affordable ticket options
- Ideal for camping or day trips
It’s a lovely blend of natural wonder and community celebration in a breathtaking part of Wales.
🎈 10. Blackpool Balloon Festival
📍 Stanley Park / Blackpool Airport
📅 June 2025
Few places do fun quite like Blackpool, and this event brings the town’s iconic energy to the skies.
Expect:
- Balloons themed around seaside characters
- Night shows with lights and music
- Traditional fairground games
- Coastal views and carnival flair
It’s a bold, bright, and utterly British take on the balloon festival scene.
🔗 More family events are listed on oravaole.co.uk.
🎒 What to Know Before You Go: Tips for Balloon Festival Visitors
- Get there early – Many launches happen at dawn.
- Dress smartly – Warm layers and waterproofs are a must.
- Bring binoculars – You’ll get the best views from afar.
- Plan for weather – Balloons only launch in calm, clear conditions.
- Book rides in advance – Tethered and full balloon rides tend to sell out, so make reservations in advance.
📊 What’s Trending in 2025’s Balloon Scene?
This year’s ballooning landscape is shifting in exciting ways:
- Events are cutting carbon emissions using sustainable fuels.
- Night glows are increasingly including drone performances.
- More festivals now offer glamping packages on-site.
- Balloonists are incorporating LED tech and GPS displays.
UK ballooning is embracing innovation while keeping its whimsical charm.
✍️ Visitor Reactions: What People Are Saying
“Yorkshire’s fiesta was amazing—hot air balloons at dawn, brilliant bands in the evening. We’re going again this year for sure.”
— Katie, Harrogate
“We didn’t expect much from Telford, but it was a hit! Perfect for kids, and we learnt loads about ballooning too.”
— Dan & Priya, Wolverhampton
🎓 Why These Events Matter: Expert View
Hot air balloon festivals are more than entertainment—they foster tourism, education, and sustainability. By bringing people together in open spaces, they:
- Promote local businesses
- Encourage environmental awareness
- Offer shared experiences across all ages
These aren’t just photo ops—they’re part of the UK’s cultural rhythm each summer.
🧠 Final Thoughts
From bustling cities to quiet countryside corners, the UK is full of festivals that turn the sky into a rainbow. Each hot air balloon celebration has its own personality—whether you’re after a peaceful early morning flight or a full-on carnival experience, there’s something here for everyone.
For balloon enthusiasts, 2025 is looking to be the most exciting year ever. So mark your calendars, pack a flask, and keep your eyes on the skies.
❓FAQs: Hot Air Balloon Celebrations in the UK
1. Do all balloon festivals offer rides?
Not always. Some offer tethered rides only, while others allow full flights—usually via pre-booking.
2. Are dogs allowed at balloon events?
Depends on the location. Many outdoor festivals are dog-friendly, but always check ahead.
3. What’s a Night Glow?
A Night Glow is a choreographed light show using grounded balloons lit from within, often synced with music.
4. Can balloons fly in the rain?
No. Flights are only possible in stable, dry, low-wind conditions for safety.
5. Is there parking available?
Most large events offer dedicated parking or park & ride services, though fees may apply.
