Night Glow
Day Launch

FAQ's

How much does it cost to go to the Fiesta?

Entrance to the Fiesta site is absolutely FREE! A charge per day applies for vehicle parking, but you do not have to pay to enter the Fiesta. To purchase car parking in advance please click here.

When and where is this year's Fiesta?

The 32nd Annual Bristol International Balloon Fiesta takes place in the Ashton Court Estate, Long Ashton, Bristol, BS41 9JN from the 12th -15th August.

When can I see mass ascents of hot air balloons?

Mass Ascents

Thursday 12th August          6pm

Friday 13th August                6am and 6pm

Saturday 14th August           6am and 6pm

Sunday  15th August            6am and 6pm

 

When are the Night Glows taking place?

The famous Night Glow is so popular there are now two! They will be held at 9.30pm on Thursday 12th August and Saturday 14th.

What are the opening hours of the Fiesta?

Opening Hours

Thursday 12th August - 12.00 midday to 10.30pm
Friday 13th August - 6.00am to 8.30pm
Saturday 14th August - 6.00am to 10.30pm
Sunday 15th August - 6.00am to 8.30pm

What else can I do at the Fiesta?

There will be a packed programme of events in the main arena, please check  our 'What's on at the Fiesta' section for more details.

We also have an exciting Trade Village, Craft Marquee and a number of new 'zones' for 2010 - further details to follow.

What is the provision for lost children?

The Fiesta recommends that parents and guardians write their mobile phone number on children's arms so that they can be contacted in the event of separation on site.

If you lose your child or parents, please go straight to the Lost Children facility near the Security office, where our trained staff will be able to help.

Can I bring my dog to the event?

Yes, dogs are welcome, but must be kept under control at all times and please remember to clean up after them.

Please also be reminded that there are fireworks following the Night Glow at 10pm on Thursday and Saturday.

 Before bringing your pet to the Fiesta, please take into consideration how busy the site is as it may not be suitable for your pet.

Can I have a BBQ at the event?

Yes, it is permitted to have a BBQ at the event but it must be away from large crowds.

Should your BBQ be deemed a hazard, security and site staff are authorised to distinguish them.

If you do bring a BBQ to the Fiesta, please kindly ensure that it is disposed of safely.

Can I camp overnight at the event?

 Unfortunately camping is not permitted on site. Please see below for a list of campsites in the area.

Camping
The following is a contact list for camping sites, caravan sites and caravan parks open to the general public during the fiesta.
CAMP SITES IN BRISTOL
Cotham Park Rugby Club
Upper arm, Beggar Bush Lane, Feyland, Bristol, BS8 3TJ
Tel: 01275 392501 Terry Robinson
CAMPSITES NEAR BRISTOL
Brook Lodge Farm Caravan and Camping Park, BS40 5RB
Tel: 01934 862311 
Cleeve Camping and Caravan Site, BS49 4PJ
Tel: 01934 832798
Homestead Farm, BA5 1BW
Tel: 01934 832798
Newton Mill Touring Centre, BA2 9JF
Tel: 01225 333909
Oak Tree and West End Caravan and Camping Park, BS24 8RH
Tel: 01934 822529
HOLIDAY CARAVAN PARKS
Baltic Wharf Caravan Park, BS1 6XG
Tel: 0117 926 8030
Brean Leisure Park, TA8 2RB
Tel: 01278 752100
Broadway House Holiday Touring Caravan and Camping Park, BS27 3DB
Tel: 01934 742610
Countryview Caravan and Touring Park, BS22 9UJ
Tel: 01934 627595
Newbridge Caravan Park, BA2 9JF
Tel: 01225 333909
Warren Farm Touring Park, TA8 2RP
Tel: (01278) 751227
Is there disabled parking on site?

Limited disabled parking is available for Disabled Badge Holders either in our Advance/Fast-track Car Park or our on the Car Parks.

Is the Clifton Suspension Bridge closing again this year?

Yes, the Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust has made the decision to close the bridge to both vehicles and pedestrians at scheduled times over the weekend, due to the large volumes of people crossing the bridge at any one time. The exact times of the closures will be announced shortly.

If I bring my bicycle to the event, where can I park?

There will be bicycle parking available on site, further details will be available shortly.

N.B. Please note that no personnel will be situated in the designated area and bikes will be left at the owners' risk.

What is the site address at Ashton Court?

Ashton Court Estate, Long Ashton, Bristol, BS41 9JN

How can I get a balloon ride at the Fiesta?

For balloon rides, you will have to contact a Balloon Ride Operator directly, a full list is available here.

I want to book a mobility scooter for the Fiesta - can I do this?

 

Mobility Scooters
If you would like to order a mobility scooter, please contact:
Shop Mobility
Phone:  0120 267 0450
Email:  wheelsforfreedom.org.uk
What toilet facilities are available for disabled visitors?

Disabled toilet facilities are available on-site by the First Aid posts.

I am a wheelchair user - can I visit the Fiesta?

Here at the Fiesta we are constantly trying every year to cultivate better provision for disabled visitors. One measure is the temporary removal of speed ramps on roads throughout the Ashton Court Estate for the Fiesta in order to assist wheelchair users. We also have forward parking areas, toilet facilities and a subsidised mobility scooter hire from Shopmobility. There is also an allocated disabled viewing area for the main arena where there will be space for disabled visitors and their carer to watch events.

I don't drive and can't walk to the Fiesta - what are the alternatives?

There are two dedicated Fiesta bus services for 2010.

You can book your car parking ticket in advance, saving money and getting even closer to the Fiesta site, click here for further details.

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If you have any queries regarding this year's Bristol International Balloon Fiesta please call our visitor information team:

0906 711 2191

Calls are charged at 50p per minute including VAT