​Bristol International Balloon Fiesta sees English city's skies awash with colourful hot air balloons​

In September 1979, Bristol's Ashton Court saw the birth of the International Balloon Fiesta. Starting with 27 balloons, mainly from the West Country, with some from Ireland, Luxembourg, and West Germany, it mesmerized onlookers. That humble gathering paved the way for what is now Europe's grandest free annual hot air balloon festival. Today, over 100 balloons ascend, capturing the attention of half a million spectators across its four-day duration. This fiesta is emblematic of Bristol, echoing the city's other icons like Brunel, Wallace and Gromit, and Concorde. Maintained by a committee, this charity event stays true to its foundational spirit, offering free admission to all. The Fiesta’s stature has grown immensely, drawing balloon aficionados not only from the UK but globally. Each year, eager fans flock to southwest England, hoping to witness the awe-inspiring sight of balloons taking flight. However, 2023 threw a curveball, with poor weather prompting the fiesta's cancellation of its planned August 10th start. Adapting to the situation, organizers introduced the 'Fiesta Fortnight', a unique ballooning event with launches from diverse locations. Moreover, the Fiesta made history by presenting the world's inaugural virtual indoor nightglow.