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Bristol Balloon Fiesta Opens with Mass Ascents, RAF Displays

8/7/2026

47 11 Full Breakdown

Summary

Balloon Fiesta Launches

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta opens on Friday, August 7, 2026 at Ashton Court Estate.
Over 100 balloons will attempt mass ascents at about 6 am and 6 pm daily, weather permitting.
The Clifton Suspension Bridge closes to all traffic from 6 pm to midnight on Friday and Saturday, requiring visitors to pre-book parking.
Organisers warn launches may be cancelled at short notice if wind or other conditions are unsafe.

Summary

RAF Falcons Perform

The RAF Falcons will perform parachute shows on Friday and Saturday at 4:30 pm, reaching speeds up to 120 mph.
The shows will feature the “Heart” and “Crisscross Carousel” formations.
A Battle of Britain Memorial flypast led by an iconic C-47 Dakota of the RAF’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will pass over the Fiesta on Sunday at about 3:50 pm, which is celebrated as a World War II remembrance symbol.

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Balloon Fiesta Launches

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta opens on Friday, August 7, 2026 at Ashton Court Estate.
Over 100 balloons will attempt mass ascents at about 6 am and 6 pm daily, weather permitting.
The Clifton Suspension Bridge closes to all traffic from 6 pm to midnight on Friday and Saturday, requiring visitors to pre-book parking.
Organisers warn launches may be cancelled at short notice if wind or other conditions are unsafe.

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