Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is one of Bristol's largest, most established and most popular events, and it is so with good reason. On the beautiful site of Ashton Court people come from all over the world to either witness others or show off their own ballooning skills. With the event lasting for four days there is plenty to do and see. If the weather is good there isn't a better place to be.

There is a varied selection of live music, a fair ground, food and drink on site and of course the balloons.

As the night draws in the sky gets dark and the balloon glow begins. Around thirty balloons sit tethered and 'burn, flicker or flash' their flame to a sequence of music. There is usually a crowd of around 100,000 people of all ages who sit or stand to witness this event on Thursday night. A second night glow on Saturday has been added as it is so popular. There is, after all nothing else quite like it. Then come the fireworks which compose the finale and you can pretty much guarantee a wonderful display.

A few tips for night glow goers would be to take a torch as even though you arrive in the light it will be dark when you leave and you want to be able to find your way through the crowd, back to the car. It is an outdoor event and as the night air draws in it gets chilly, even if it has been a hot day so bring a coat. And wear sensible shoes, you are going to be standing in a field for some time! Finally, the best spots fill up fast, so arrive and get yours early.

Then there is the balloon launches where balloons take off en masse (around 100) to transform Bristol's sky into a scattered display of colour.

The gates open at 12pm (midday) on Thursday 7th August.

Opening times of fiesta:

(The fairground closes at 8pm on Friday and Sunday but stays open until 10pm on Thursday and Saturday).

Balloon Launches are arranged as follows but are subject to weather conditions:

'Special Shapes' launch and tether, Thursday 7th August at 6pm

Launches at 6am and 6pm on Friday 8th, Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th August.