Balloon Meets & Events

Updated 25.11.2023

There are a few European meets that are getting cancelled as a result of the global situation (buzzword from Cold War days) some at short notice so best check first. The Gordon Bennett is now being hosted by Albuquerque on account of Airspace problems in Europe caused by Mr Putin who has obviously apologised wholeheartedly.

 If you know of, or have, an event you want listed here, we’d be delighted to hear from you, doesn’t have to be just ballooning! If you do attend one of these meets it would be great to get some feedback along with some pictures if that is possible, thanks. Email chris@easyballoons.co.uk

The events and meets listed here are always subject to weather. Some of them are regional club meetings and events and although not ‘public events’ you will more often than not be able to see and get up close to the balloons, pilots and crews. If you want to get involved in ballooning these are the places to go. Where entry fees are posted then they refer to the balloon teams and are not necessarily an admission charge. If you wish to just go and spectate then you will be made most welcome and entry for spectators at most events is free but please take notice of any instructions that are given to you. They will be for your safety. Flights are generally early morning, shortly after sunrise, and late afternoon. If you want to get involved have a word with the organisers, pilot or crew or check out the British Balloon & Airship Club’s website www.bbac.org where a list of regional clubs can also be found. You will also find details and links to the Regional Clubs on our ‘Links’ page. Balloon pilots are always on the look out for willing crew!

Balloon Events and Meets

Worldwide list with links at http://www.balloonevents.org/
Free events guide: http://www.free-events.co.uk/

Dates for 2024

20-28 January 2024 44th Chateau d’Oex Balloon Festival Chateau dOex, Switzerland. Wrap up warm but they haven’t had much in the way of snow for a few years so fingers crossed this will be the year. Start saving now. Webbly is www.festivaldeballons.ch Telephone 0041 269 242533 or email info@festivaldeballoons.ch

31st May – 2nd June 2024 Midlands Air Festival Ragley Hall, Alcester, Warwickshire. Really well established relaxed, lovely balloon meet that gets a huge amount of support. Not surprising really as the air display itself is something quite special as well. Balloonists package includes pretty much everything. This is a brilliant meet. There is a charge for spectators but it is always really worth it if you love everything aerial. First flight is Friday morning with the spectacular Nightfire event on Friday evening. Details from www.midlandsairfestival.com or email balloons@midlandairfestival.com

8-11 August 2024 Bristol Balloon Fiesta Ashton Court, Bristol. Big annaul event starts off with a press day. Checking the wind direction and finding a spot away from the site to watch the balloons come over is a popular pastime for the locals. Usually get plenty of older special shapes turn up. https://www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk