Features / bristol balloon fiesta
The unique balloons to watch out for at 2023’s Balloon Fiesta
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is celebrating its 45th year at Ashton Court Estate this year.
The event will take place from Thursday August 10 until Sunday August 13, and is free to attend. It is estimated to attract around 500,000 people across the four days.
If you are planning to go to the event, these are some of the balloons you can expect to see across the weekend.
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Bravo Bear
Bravo Bear is a new and special edition to this year’s festival. From Taiwan, Bravo Bear is Taipei City Government’s mascot built by Ultramagic. Bristol is the second part of its European tour.
OHOO Dips
Built in 1998 by Cameron Balloons, at the time it was known as ‘KP choc dips’ and was created as part of the advertising for the new product. However, it has now rebranded as ‘OHOO dips’ and is owned by MJ Ballooning.
OHOO Dips balloon showing its rebrand from ‘KP Choc Dips’ – photo: MJ Ballooning
Daisy the Cow
Introduced for the first time last year, Daisy the Cow is a newer addition and was built by Cameron Balloons in Bristol during the lockdown. Daisy’s cloud hopper design also makes for an interesting sight as a solo pilot will be drifted across Bristol.
Maskot
Starting out by flying skies in Belgium, Maskot has now been flying in the UK since 2019. It will make an appearance at this year’s festival with Bristol Balloon Collectors.
Maskot the balloon floating above houses – photo: Bristol Balloon Collectors
Teenage Cancer Trust
Teenage Cancer Trust balloon returns to the festival this year as it continues to be the official charity partner of the event. Alongside this, the charity will be fundraising at the evening night show and offering other activities such as children’s activities, a tombola, and a raffle.
Teenage Cancer Trust balloon – photo: Matt Siera (MJ Ballooning)
Chubb Fire Extinguisher
Built by Cameron Balloons in 2000, this balloon is one of three fire extinguisher special shapes. It is set to feature this weekend at the festival.
The Chubb Fire Extinguisher built by Cameron Balloons – photo: MJ Ballooning
Thomas the Tank Engine
Built in Bristol in 1998, the Thomas the Tank Engine balloon has been chosen as the first official balloon of the festival, as a ‘Tank’ you to Bristol.
Thomas the Tank Engine balloon built in 1998 – photo credit: MJ Ballooning
Stowells of Chelsea Wine Box
Built by Cameron Balloons in 1998, this balloon debuted at the festival then. Flying Enterprises are bringing it back this year as it has become a classic.
Stowells of Chelsea balloon that was built in 1998 – photo credit: MJ Ballooning
Slick the Dragon
A new addition to MJ Ballooning, Slick will make a re-appearance this year. He was last seen over skies in Bristol in 2015.
Slick the dragon in the air – photo credit: MJ Ballooning
Snow White
This 47-metre-high balloon will make an appearance at this year’s festival as it celebrates its 30th birthday. It is no longer permitted for flying but will be a great addition as part of a static display.
The 47-metre Snow White balloon in the air – photo credit: MJ Ballooning
Buster and Bella
Buster has become a popular feature at the festival, and is now joined by new friend Bella the Bulldog. This is Bella’s first appearance at the festival, making this duo a must-see this year.
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For more information on this weekend’s festival, visit: www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk
Main photo: MJ Ballooning
Read next:
- Balloons soar above the city ahead of Bristol Balloon Fiesta
- Bristol International Balloon Fiesta officially launches for 2023
- Bristol Balloon Fiesta to return for 45th Sapphire year
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