Nestled in the heart of the picturesque city of Bristol, the 2023Bristol Balloon Festival was a vibrant celebration of colour, community, and the timeless beauty of hot air balloons. This annual event, held at the enchanting Ashton Court Estate, promised a day of awe-inspiring moments and unforgettable experiences. A couple of the Wired Media team went along to view the spectacle.
Morning Ascends: A Dreamy Dawn Adventure
The early morning hours found me on the festival grounds, eagerly awaiting the Morning Ascends. Though the 6 am start time might seem daunting, it was well worth the early rise. As the first rays of sunlight painted the sky, the hot air balloons began to inflate, casting enchanting silhouettes against the morning canvas. Watching these majestic giants slowly take flight was a breathtaking spectacle, and I couldn’t resist snapping photos to capture the magic.
Daytime Delights and Culinary Adventures
As the day unfolded, the festival offered a multitude of activities to keep everyone entertained. Families reveled in the kid-friendly attractions, from thrilling rides to bouncy castles, while couples and friends enjoyed leisurely picnics on the lush lawns in the midday sun. The food stalls scattered throughout Ashton Court Estate catered to every craving imaginable. I savoured some of Bristol’s finest cuisine, from gourmet burgers to mouthwatering pastries, ensuring I had the energy to explore all that the festival had to offer.
Evening Ascends and the Enchanting Night Glow
As the sun began its descent, I eagerly anticipated the Evening Ascends, a truly magical spectacle. The festival’s evening session saw the balloons taking to the skies once more, creating a colourful parade against the twilight backdrop. It was as if the heavens themselves had come alive with a symphony of colours.
But the night was far from over. The grand finale, the Night Glow, was an experience beyond compare. Hot air balloons, tethered to the ground, illuminated in perfect harmony with a synchronised music and light show. The result was a mesmerising dance of light and colour that left the entire audience in awe. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with wonder.
Wired Media At Bristol Balloon Festival
The Bristol Balloon Festival 2023 had exceeded all expectations. From the tranquil Morning Ascends to the lively daytime activities and the enchanting Evening Ascends and Night Glow, every moment had been a testament to the creativity, spirit, and community of Bristol. As I left Ashton Court Estate that night, I carried with me a heart full of cherished memories and a renewed appreciation for the magic that can be found in the skies above Bristol. Until next year, Bristol Balloon Festival, I’ll be counting down the days!
