August 7, 2026, Bristol, UK: Hot air balloons take off in a mass ascent from Ashton Court on Friday morning for the official opening of the 2026 48th Bristol International Balloon Fiesta in partnership with Albert Goodman which takes place from from Friday, August 7, to Sunday, August 9, with mass ascents and night glows celebrating the city of Bristol and its heritage links to hot air ballooning. There will be an expanded special shapes line-up featuring beloved classics, recent favourites and new additions. (Credit Image: © Simon Chapman/London News Pictures via ZUMA Press Wire) #zumapress #journalism #Japan #UK #hotairballoon