Updated on April 9, 2023
Are you looking for a unique way to experience the beauty of Yorkshire? Look no further than the upcoming Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta!
This hot air balloon festival is held annually in North Yorkshire and offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy spectacular balloon launches across this four-day event.
From live music and family activities to street food and funfair rides, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re planning to attend with friends or family, here’s all the details so that you can make the most out of your visit.
Read on to find out more about what makes Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta such a special occasion!
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Everything you need to know about Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta
If you want to visit one of the most unique festivals in Yorkshire, don’t miss the chance to see Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta.
This vibrant event is packed with rides, street food, live music, and magical hot air balloon launches. It’s a fun day out for visitors of all ages!
Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about the festival before you go!
What is Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta?
Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta is an annual event that takes place every August at Castle Howard in York.
It is the largest hot air balloon festival in Yorkshire, with more than 30 balloons from around the world taking part each year.
Visitors to Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta are in for a treat as they can expect to witness stunning views of the balloons across the countryside and nearby Castle Howard.
When is Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta?
Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta takes place annually in August. Usually over the last weekend of the month and lasting four days.
In 2023, the event is happening Friday 25th – Monday 28th August.
Where is Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta held?
Previously, Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta has been held at York Racecourse. However, it has found a new home for 2023.
For the first time, Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta will be held at Castle Howard, approximately 15 miles north of York in the Howardian Hills AONB.
Castle Howard is renowned for hosting an array of spectacular events throughout the year, so it is a fitting new home for the Balloon Fiesta.
Address: Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA
What time does the Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta start?
Exact timings for the 2023 Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta are still to be confirmed.
Previous years have had activities running throughout the day into the evening. So, if you are planning to attend, keep in mind you could spend the entire day at the event if you want to.
This section will be updated once more details are released.
How much are Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta Tickets?
Full price tickets for Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta 2023 are outlined below:
- Adult day ticket: £35
- Teen day ticket: £30
- Child day ticket: £20
- Children aged three and under: Free
- Weekend tickets (without camping): £120/adult, £100/teen, £60/child (free for under 3s)
- Weekend tickets (with camping): £200/adult, £150/teen, £95/child (free for under 3s), permits for campervans, caravans, and trailer tents sold separately.
Early bird pricing is available until 30th April, which saves up to 50% on tickets so book early for the best price!
Can dogs go to the Yorkshire Balloon Festival?
Yes! Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta is a dog friendly event.
Dogs must always remain on a lead, and you must clean up any dog waste and place it in the bins provided.
Please note that throughout the day there will be loud noises and crowds. Keep this in mind if you plan to bring your dog with you.
Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta Parking
Car parking for Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta is available onsite at Castle Howard. This is included in the cost of your ticket, so you don’t need to pay extra for parking.
Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta: What to expect
So, if you’re ready to experience the awe and excitement of Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta for yourself, here’s an insight into what to expect on your visit.
Live Music
Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta is one epic party! All the activities of the day take place around a lively soundtrack of live music on the stage.
Throughout the afternoon and evening there are several musicians and DJs performing live sets for the crowd to enjoy.
Whether you want to dance the day away, or simply sit back and unwind, you’ll enjoy the live music experience at the festival.
Some of the acts confirmed for 2023 include Sister Sledge, Sam Ryder, Phats and Small, and Dick v. Dom DJ Battle, with many more still to be announced.
Live Demonstrations and Family Activities
As well as live music, visitors to Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta can enjoy a fantastic range of demonstrations and family activities throughout the event.
The 2022 show included some impressive birds of prey displays, with the opportunity to get your photo taken with these majestic creatures.
Plus, the 2023 line-up includes action-packed attractions including adrenaline-fuelled shows from Stuntworld International, to family-friendly kids yoga sessions.
No matter your age or interests, there is sure to be a live act to capture your imagination.
Street Food
If you’re planning a visit to the Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta, then you’ll be in for a treat with the delicious array of street food stalls available.
From traditional British favourites to exotic international flavours, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a light bite or something more substantial, you can find it here!
The fantastic selection of vendors means that no matter what your tastes are, you won’t go hungry as you explore all the activities on offer.
At previous festivals, James and I have especially enjoyed bratwurst for lunch. We also strongly recommend the churros with chocolate sauce to warm up on a chilly evening!
Most vendors accept card at the street food stalls. However, you may want to bring some cash with you just in case. Cash machines will be available onsite; however, charges will apply.
Funfair
At Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta the funfair offers thrilling rides and attractions to entertain both young and old.
There is a selection of classic fairground favourites such as carousels and a big wheel, as well as modern thrill rides such as waltzers and more.
You’ll find a ride for everyone, whether you’re a thrill seeker or looking for a more relaxing ride.
The rides add even more fun to the Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta experience and are a fantastic way to pass the time between acts or while you are waiting for the balloon launch.
Fairground rides are not included in the cost of entry to the festival and need to be paid for separately.
Balloon Launch
The highlight of the Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta is undoubtedly the balloon launch.
Each day of the festival, visitors will be treated to a breath-taking display as around 30 hot air balloons take off in unison.
The sight of so many graceful balloons floating above Castle Howard is truly awe-inspiring!
It is also a fascinating opportunity to see just how much preparation goes into launching a hot air balloon. See the teams assemble their baskets and inflate the balloons ready for take-off.
Many of the balloons feature fun designs, making the display even more charming. Some of the favourite characters in recent years include a loveable green dragon and an imposing pirate ship!
Spectators can also enjoy live music and entertainment while they watch, making it an unforgettable experience for everyone who attends.
Please note that the balloon launch is weather dependent and may be cancelled if conditions are not suitable.
Balloon Glow
And as if the balloon launch wasn’t magical enough, you can wrap up the evening with the enchanting Balloon Glow show.
This involves the pilots illuminating their balloons in time with a curated playlist of top hits. It’s the ultimate party and a terrific way to conclude your evening at the Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta!
As with the Mass Balloon Launch, the Balloon Glow show is weather dependent and may be cancelled if the conditions are too dangerous to inflate the balloons.
Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta Review: Is it worth visiting Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta?
Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta is one of my personal favourite events in the Yorkshire calendar each year.
Although I’m not an avid festival-attendee, I love the atmosphere at the event. It is a fun and lively day with a fantastic mix of activities, rides, food, and music.
Watching the hot air balloons take off is always the highlight, and an inspiring, remarkable sight. But even if the balloon launch is cancelled due to harsh weather, visitors to Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta are guaranteed to have a fantastic day out.
If you haven’t visited before, I highly recommend booking your ticket for Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta this year…you won’t be disappointed!
Other Hot Air Balloon Festivals in the UK
If you are a hot air balloon enthusiast, here are some of the other top hot air balloon festivals in the UK to visit.
Whether you’re an experienced enthusiast or just getting started, each festival offers something special that will make it worth your while.
- Bristol International Balloon Fiesta (August)
- Midlands Air Festival (June)
- Staffordshire Balloon Fiesta (July)
- Old Buckenham Balloon Festival (August)
- Northampton Balloon Festival (August)
Where to ride a Hot Air Balloon in Yorkshire
Hot air balloon rides are not available at Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta. However, if the event has whetted your appetite, there are plenty of places to ride a hot air balloon in Yorkshire.
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience the beauty of Yorkshire from a whole new perspective aboard a hot air balloon!
From breath-taking aerial views to an unforgettable experience, there are plenty of options for taking to the skies in this stunning region.
Whether you’re looking for something special to do with friends or family, or simply want to check the experience off your bucket list, here are some of the best places to ride a hot air balloon in Yorkshire.
Hot air balloon rides York
Here are the best hot air balloon rides in York for your next flight!
Virgin Balloon Flights
Soar high above the city of York and experience one of England’s oldest cities from a whole new perspective with Virgin Balloon Flights York at York Racecourse.
This breath-taking hot air balloon ride offers visitors stunning views of some of the most iconic landmarks in this historical city, including its ancient walls, minster cathedral and River Ouse.
From up in the sky, you can also admire the beautiful countryside that surrounds this vibrant city, making it an unforgettable experience for all!
Whether you’re looking to take a romantic journey or just want to get away from it all with friends or family – there’s no better way to explore Yorkshire than with a hot air balloon flight over York.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your Virgin Balloon Flight today and let yourself be swept away by the beauty of York!
Yorkshire Balloon Flights
Experience the breath-taking beauty of Yorkshire from a hot air balloon with Yorkshire Balloon Flights.
This amazing adventure offers an unforgettable experience and spectacular views over York, allowing you to observe the city from a unique perspective.
Enjoy a sunrise flight in one of their luxury balloons as you drift peacefully through the sky and take in the stunning views below.
With experienced pilots on board, you can be sure that your journey will be safe, comfortable, and enjoyable – giving you memories to last a lifetime!
Soar high above York and experience this incredible opportunity today with Yorkshire Balloon Flights.
Hot air balloon rides Leeds
Are you looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Leeds? Look no further than Virgin Balloon Flights Leeds at Lotherton Hall!
You can take to the skies and explore the beauty of this stunning region from a whole new perspective. Your aerial adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Whether it’s your first time or hundredth time in a hot air balloon, you are guaranteed an exciting ride as you float over some of Yorkshire’s most beautiful landscapes.
So, what are you waiting for? Book now and see why hot air balloon rides in Leeds are not to be missed!
Hot air balloon rides Harrogate
Experience the charm and beauty of Yorkshire with Virgin Balloon Flights Harrogate from Ripley Castle.
You’ll be welcomed to a pre-flight briefing. Here, you’ll learn about balloon flight safety and have time to ask questions before your hot air balloon journey begins.
Then take part in the exciting inflation process, followed by an unforgettable ride over spectacular landscapes.
Once back on ground enjoy a celebratory toast with complimentary prosecco!
Whether you are looking for an adventure or just want to relax while taking in the amazing views, Virgin Balloon Flights Harrogate is sure to make it an experience that will stay with you forever.
Hot air balloon rides Doncaster
Experience the magic of a hot air balloon ride from Virgin Balloon Rides at Cusworth Hall Museum.
Feel the rush of adventure as you take off into the sky. You’ll be soaring above gorgeous landscapes with nothing but your imagination to guide you!
Take in stunning views from incredible heights and make memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s an unforgettable romantic experience or an exciting family outing, it is a magical experience for all ages.
Book your flight today to discover why so many people have fallen in love with this unique way of seeing the world!
Hot air balloon rides Sheffield
Experience the magic of a hot air balloon ride from Virgin Balloon Rides at Sheffield Transport Sports Club.
Yorkshire residents can now enjoy an unforgettable experience in the skies above England’s beautiful county.
Soar over stunning landscapes, take breath-taking photographs and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Hot air balloons are majestic and awe-inspiring. They offer an unparalleled view of this gorgeous region as you drift along guided only by the wind.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic adventure or just want to enjoy some peace and quiet in the clouds, this is one experience you won’t soon forget!
Treat yourself to something special and book your spot on a hot air balloon ride today!
Hot air balloon rides Yorkshire Dales
A hot air balloon ride with Airborne Adventures is the perfect way to experience the stunning beauty of the Yorkshire Dales countryside.
From the sky, you’ll be privy to breath-taking panoramic views that you can’t get from the ground. You’ll be able to spot unique villages, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys below.
To ensure you get the best experience possible, you will be guided by experienced pilots aboard top-of-the-line balloons and equipment.
Once you have landed and packed away the balloon, enjoy a celebratory glass of bubbly, before heading back to the launch site.
Airborne Adventures offer private balloon flights for two or three passengers, making them the ideal way to celebrate a special occasion.
Before you go
Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta is an utterly unique event that offers visitors an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re planning to attend with friends or family, make sure you book your tickets early so that you don’t miss out!
And if you love Yorkshire as much as I do, sign up for my weekly newsletter for even more Yorkshire adventures and tips!
Until our next adventure,
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Hello, I’m Hannah! I’m a writer and photographer who loves experiencing the wonders of Yorkshire. My guides will help you escape from your daily routine by showing you that you don’t have to go far to find an adventure.