Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
Ashton Court Estate, Bristol, England
Over a hundred hot air balloons lifting off together at dawn, and it costs nothing to watch.
How the Dad Score breaks down
Scored July 2026- Together time19/20
- A flask at dawn watching a hundred balloons rise together.
- Low faff15/20
- Pre-dawn alarms and Ashton Court parking take commitment.
- Value20/20
- Europe’s biggest balloon event, free to attend.
- Age span19/20
- Balloons at dawn and the Nightglow work for every age.
- Weatherproof16/20
- Wind scrubs ascents, but four days of slots usually rescue the weekend.
Editorial, never paid. How the Dad Score works
Europe's largest hot air balloon event fills the skies above Bristol with more than a hundred balloons during mass ascents at dawn and dusk. There is a fun fair, food stalls and the famous Nightglow, where tethered balloons light up to music after dark. Entry to Ashton Court is free. Dates are usually mid-August.
Why it works for a dad and child
Set the alarm, take a flask and watch a sky full of colour rise together. The evening Nightglow is an easy, free, jaw-dropping night out for a dad and child.
When is Bristol International Balloon Fiesta?
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta runs 6 to 9 Aug 2026 in Bristol, England.
Is Bristol International Balloon Fiesta worth it with kids?
girl.dad gives Bristol International Balloon Fiesta a Dad Score of 89/100. Over a hundred hot air balloons lifting off together at dawn, and it costs nothing to watch.
What should we plan for at Bristol International Balloon Fiesta?
It is a outdoor event at Ashton Court Estate in Bristol. Best age on the listing is All ages, and entry is free.