THE hot air balloon festival is just around the corner after a first successful event last year caused interest to soar and ignited the imagination of visitors.

The Worcester Balloon Festival returns to Worcester Racecourse on Friday, June 21 and Saturday, June 22. The highlight for most visitors is the dramatic spectacle of the hot air balloons themselves.

However, a variety of other entertainment is also planned during the festival including dog agility, Viking re-enactors, a funfair and a firework display.

The festival begins at around 4pm on Friday, running until 10.30pm. Tickets are still available via Skiddle. Organisers have pointed out that timings are subject to change and balloon activity is 'weather dependent'.

Friday (4pm to 10.30pm)

Arena Entertainment

 6pm: Vikings – Re-enactment

 7.30pm: Bolddog FMX team

 9.30pm: Stuntworld International

7pm onwards – Balloons Launch

10pm – Balloon Night Glow

 10.15pm – Firework Display

 

Saturday (noon to 10.30pm)

Arena Entertainment

 1pm: Vikings – Re-enactment

 2pm: Paws for thoughts – Dog Agility

 3pm: Bolddog FMX Team

 4pm: Jump Dogs parachute display team

5pm: Stunt World International – Stunts

 6pm: Paws for thoughts – Dog Agility

 7pm: Vikings – Re-Enactment

 8pm: Bolddog FMX Team

 9pm: Stuntworld International – Stunts

Balloon ascents – 7pm onwards (Weather Dependent)

Balloon Night Glow – 10pm

 Fireworks Display – 10.15pm

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Other entertainment includes a circus workshop, meeting the Vikings, trade stalls, festival food, a funfair, a Monster Truck ride and birds of prey.

A spokesperson for the event wrote on the festival website: "This year, we are bringing the festival back bigger and better than before. The festival promises to be a spectacular event that will see the sky filled with colourful hot air balloons of all shapes and sizes (subject to weather). 

"The festival will feature a range of activities and attractions, making it a great day out for all the family. There will be live arena performances, food and drink stalls, craft stalls, and a variety of other entertainment options.

"The highlight of the festival will undoubtedly be the hot air balloon displays. Visitors will be able to see the balloons up close as they are inflated and prepared for flight, before taking to the skies in a spectacular mass ascent. 

"Overall, the Worcester Hot Air Balloon Festival promises to be a fantastic event that is not to be missed. With its breathtaking displays and range of activities, it is sure to be a memorable day out for all who attend. Please note, all ballooning activity is subject to weather." 

Things to bear in mind on your visit

  • No Gazebos or BBQs

Organisers do not permit gazebos or large umbrellas as they can obstruct the view of other visitors. Small shade tents for children and portable chairs are allowed. They also don’t permit the use or portable BBQs.

  • Are dogs allowed?

The event is dog-friendly event but organisers request all dogs remain on leads. If the weather is extremely hot, organisers will not allow dogs for their own safety.

  • Can I bring my own food and drink?

Picnics are permitted, but strictly no glass or alcohol is to be bought into the event. Bag searches will be in operation.

  • Is there parking?

Parking is available but limited and will be on a first come first serve basis (this includes disabled parking). Organisers do not reserve car parking spaces and encourage anyone attending to consider parking in the town car parks or using public transport. 

  • Can I leave and come back again?

Yes but get a hand stamp from security on the way out. 

  • Poor behaviour

 
The festival organiser say 'anyone found to have knives, drugs, or alcohol and/or is being disruptive will be asked to leave and no refunds will be given'.