Balloons Over Bristol...

The Bristol International Balloon Festival last summer was SPECTACULAR! Around 100 balloons were launched and I enjoyed about 75 of them before sunset. 2008 will be the 30th anniversary of the Fiesta, hosted by the "Discovery Channel" and it's sure to be better than ever. Over 100,000 people attend each day and with acres and acres of land, there was plenty of room for us all! As you can see, I couldn't have asked for nicer weather... a real treat in the UK. (click to enlarge photos)

It was definitely a "family affair", and I had wished I had mine with me to enjoy the games, food, fun and BALLOONS, of course!

This balloon sponsored by Jaguar just happened to be right in front of where I was standing and allowed me a great opportunity to watch the process from start, to finish, to FLIGHT! I never realized how much work went into getting one of these beautiful rides off the ground!

Wishing I could catch a ride in one of these!

There were even a few balloons with unique shapes... how about this house? Good advertising!

The setting for the Fiesta is "Ashton Court"... originally built during the 15th century. The main family that owned it through the years (the Smyths) started expanding it as far back as 1545. In 1949 (over 400 years later!), with no Smyths left, the property became derelict. The city of Bristol took it over in 1959 and began restoration. It covers 850 acres, and is filled with endless recreational activities, is available for weddings and conferences and also houses a great variety of wildlife. A truly breathtaking setting.