Hot air balloons fill the sky above Bristol ahead of annual fiesta

Almost a dozen colourful hot air balloons filled the skies above Bristol to mark the countdown to the city’s annual fiesta.

Balloons launched from College Green in the heart of the city on Friday morning, as commuters gathered to watch the inflation and ascent.

The launch took in views of Bristol’s City Hall, cathedral, historic harbourside and Temple Meads train station.

More than 100 balloons are expected to take part in this year’s mass ascents, scheduled for 6am and 6pm each day, weather permitting.

“Steady speeds out of College Green, perfect track all the way into Keynsham.

“The weather was perfect, with nice visibility across the city.

Mr Thomas, who has been working as a hot air balloon pilot for around 10 years, said the team is really looking forward to the fiesta, describing it as an important event for the city.

Hot air ballooning has been a historic part of Bristol’s culture for many years, with the first recorded flight in the city dating back to the 18th century.

In the line-up will be beloved classics alongside new additions, including the Up balloon, Wallace and Gromit Moon Rocket, Thomas the Tank Engine and Sonic the Hedgehog.

On both Friday and Saturday evenings, visitors to the festival can experience nightglows, where dozens of balloons inflate and use their burners to glow in time to music.

“Seeing our skies full of shapes and colours is truly special, whether you find balloons already flying overhead or hoping the wind will bring them your way.”