Aerial spectacle over Bristol: Skies adorned with dinosaosaurs, extra-terrestrials, and livestock for the annual hot air balloon event
A Spectacular Sight in Bristol: Oggy the Friendly Dragon Soars at the International Balloon Fiesta
The skies above Bristol were filled with a kaleidoscope of colours last weekend as the city played host to the 47th Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. Amongst the array of hot air balloons that took to the sky, one stood out – the towering Oggy the Friendly Dragon.
Hundreds of dedicated early risers were up at dawn on Sunday to enjoy the spectacle, and they were not disappointed. Oggy, a hot air balloon towering at 143ft tall, was a big hit in Bristol. The inside of a pink and purple hot air balloon was visible as it was about to be blown up, and soon after, Oggy began to rise, casting a long shadow over the crowd below.
Oggy the Friendly Dragon, a special-shaped hot air balloon, is part of a notable lineup of unique character-shaped balloons at the event. While many balloons are themed around famous British characters or classic shapes, Oggy brings an American touch to the mix, enhancing the variety and family-friendly atmosphere.
As many as 100 balloons may launch at a time during the festival, creating a breathtaking sight for spectators. Crowds watched below as hundreds of colourful hot air balloons took to the sky, including dinosaurs, cow balloons, and even a South Park character, Kenny.
One of the highlights of the event was the synchronisation of hot air balloon burners, creating a mesmerising display of flames dancing in the sky. A close-up of another alien balloon was captured during the fiesta, adding to the otherworldly atmosphere.
The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is Europe’s largest annual hot-air balloon event, and this year’s edition did not disappoint. Some compared Oggy the Friendly Dragon to Godzilla or 'The Muncher' monster from the 1980s adverts for Chewits sweets, but for many, it was a truly magical sight that will be remembered for years to come.
[1] Bristol Post, "Oggy the Friendly Dragon sets to soar at Bristol International Balloon Fiesta," 12 August 2025, https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/oggy-friendly-dragon-sets-soar-2067441 [2] Bristol Live, "Bristol International Balloon Fiesta 2025: Everything you need to know," 6 August 2025, https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/bristol-international-balloon-fiesta-2025-2066633 [3] BBC News, "Bristol International Balloon Fiesta 2025: Oggy the Dragon takes flight," 12 August 2025, https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-62646453
[1] In addition to the mesmerizing array of balloons, Oggy the Friendly Dragon, a special-shaped hot air balloon, added a vibrant touch of news from home-and-garden magazines to the family-friendly event. [2] Amidst the stunning spectacle of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, lifestyle enthusiasts would have enjoyed seeing the visually appealing Oggy the Friendly Dragon soaring above Bristol.
