York Balloon Fiesta is back! Here’s everything you need to know

It was already a soaraway success.

Now in its third year, York Balloon Fiesta is under new management – and they are promising an event that is even bigger and better.

There are new attractions – notably an inflatable obstacle course so large it can probably be seen from space – plus live music.

But all the old favourites are there, with masses of hot air balloons taking to the skies, and then the remarkable night glows in the evening.

Entry is free – and the organisers are confident they have sorted the traffic situation which caused gridlock last year.

So here’s all you need to know about the York Balloon Fiesta 2019.

New attractions

The Labyrinth Challenge

A new highlight for 2019 will be The Labyrinth Challenge, which is the world’s longest continuous inflatable assault course. The inflatable offers over 1,000ft of bouncy fun spread across five unique themed zones – some race for the fastest time possible whilst others enjoy the inflatable environment at a more leisurely pace. Admission to the Labyrinth Challenge is £5 per person, with the activity available throughout the festival.

Live music

The new event organiser, John Lowery of York-based Events & Attractions, said: “Our stage, hosted by Minster FM, will feature acts throughout the weekend to appeal to young and old alike, from Freddie Mercury and Abba tributes on Friday evening to CBeebies’ Mr Bloom appearing with his band on Sunday afternoon – this is a real feel-good event.”

Music programme

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Friday 27 Sept	6.45pm	Gary Goodmaze , Europe’s No 1 Freddie Mercury Tribute
	7.55pm	Abba Arrival , Voted ‘Best’ & Most Authentic Tribute Show 2018
Saturday 28 Sept	3.00pm	Twist & Pulse , as seen on Britain’s Got Talent: The Champions
	6.15pm	The Upbeat Beatles Tribute
	7.30pm	The Dolly Parton Experience including Kenny Rogers Tribute
	9.00pm	Rule The World, Take That Tribute
Sunday 29 Sept	1.00pm	Rock Choir
	3.30pm	Mr Bloom & His Band

Arena events

As well as the return of the funfair – complete with new rides like the spinning and bouncing Jumper Jumper – an arena will host events like bird flying displays and a stunt show.

Arena programme timings

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Friday 27 Sept	6.00pm	Owl Adventures Bird Flying Show
Saturday 28 Sept	12.00pm	Jez Avery Stunt Show
	12.45pm	Balloon Tethered
	2.30pm	Owl Adventures Bird Flying Show
	4.00pm	Jez Avery Stunt Show
	9.50pm	Firework and Laser Show Finale
Sunday 29 Sept	2.15pm	Owl Adventures Bird Flying Show
	2.45pm	Jez Avery Stunt Show

Ballooning fun

Flights

The balloons are the stars of the show of course.

Subject to favourable weather conditions, flights will take place from 4.45pm on Friday, 7am and 4.45pm on Saturday and 7am on Sunday morning.

All times are subject to change, according to prevailing weather conditions, with regular updates on social media in the event of changes or cancellations.

Night glows and fireworks

Hot air balloons – approximate timings

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Friday 27 Sept	4.45pm	Mass Balloon Launch
	9.00pm	Hot Air Balloon Night Glow
Saturday 28 Sept	7.00am	Mass Balloon Launch
	12.45pm	Balloon Tethered
	16:45pm	Mass Balloon Launch
	8.40pm	Hot Air Balloon Night Glow
Sunday 29 Sept	7.00am	Mass Balloon Launch
	12.45pm	Balloon Tethered
	16:45pm	Mass Balloon Launch

Transport and parking

For 2019, an extensive new traffic management programme has been introduced to minimise congestion around the city. On-site parking will be available (£10 per vehicle) but organisers are working with public transport providers to minimise vehicular traffic.

Askham Bar Park & Ride

Buy a ticket in advance and up to five people can travel for just £5. Tickets must be booked in advance and are only valid to and from Askham Bar Park & Ride.

Shuttle bus from York Station

There will be additional buses on services 3 and 4 which provide travel from the Railway Station to the Knavesmire. Travel is £3 per person.