00:00Get ready Bristol, the skies are about to burst into colour. The Bristol
00:06International Balloon Fiesta returns to Ashton Court Estate with more than 100
00:12hot air balloons expected to take flight each day. This year marks a 47th
00:17edition of the much-loved free-to-attend festival but it's been trimmed down to
00:23three days from four as organisers look to control rising costs. If you're
00:28planning to go, here's what you need to know. Morning and evening mass ascents are
00:35scheduled around six o'clock, both in the morning and evening times, weather
00:41permitting. These colourful take-offs are at the heart of the fiesta, filling the
00:46skies at sunrise and sunset. Get ready for the famous night glows. Dozens of
00:52tethered balloons lit up in time to music, turning the night sky into a glowing
00:57spectacle. New for this year is the immersive in the clouds experience, where
01:02visitors can step inside a cold inflated balloon while listening to pilot
01:07soundscape. Balloon makers Cameron Balloons will also showcase their latest
01:12creations. Shuttle buses will run from Temple Meads and Queen Square, providing a
01:19direct route to the fiesta site. If you're cycling, the Festival Way is a scenic and
01:25safe option. You can also walk via the Clifton Suspension Bridge for a stunning view
01:30as you arrive. Local tips suggest arriving early to avoid crowds, skipping the car
01:36altogether and finding alternative viewpoints like Troopers Hill for a quieter
01:41experience.
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