The Ultimate Guide to the Dorset Balloon Festival

Get ready for an adventure that soars above the ordinary with the Dorset Balloon Festival, set to dazzle at the Dorchester Showground. For two days, the showground and skies over Dorchester will be filled with a vibrant array of hot air balloons, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a fan of ballooning or a curious newcomer, this guide will help you navigate the highlights of the festival and ensure you make the most of every moment.

Key Takeaways

• Find out how to book tickets to the Dorset Balloon Festival

• Practical tips for making the most of the festival

• How to book a hot air balloon ride and take part in the mass ascents

• Discover other hot air balloon ride locations near this festival

The Dorset Balloon Festival made its debut in 2024, instantly captivating visitors with its vibrant displays, giant funfair and family friendly activities. Held at the picturesque Dorchester Showground, the festival celebrates the art and adventure of hot air ballooning, promising a weekend of fun for the whole family.

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable family friendly event set to take place on:

Saturday 4th - Sunday 5th of May 2024.

The festival will be hosted at the scenic Dorchester Showground. Be sure to join us for one of Dorset's most exciting annual events, with tickets to the Dorset Balloon Festival 2024!

Ready to join the fun? Ticket prices for the Dorset Balloon Festival start at £15 for children and £25 for adults. For weekend tickets, it will cost £40 per adult, £20 for a child, and £100 for a family ticket. Secure your spot early to ensure you don’t miss out on the weekend’s festivities. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate, but booking in advance is recommended to avoid the queues and guarantee your entry to this spectacular event.

Camping Tickets For the Dorset Balloon Festival

You can make a full weekend of the festivities with onsite camping. Motorhomes, campervans, and caravans are all welcome, however tents can’t be accommodated at this time. Simply add camping to your weekend tickets for a fantastic weekend experience!

Car Parking at the Dorset Balloon Festival

For your convenience, car parking is available on-site at the Dorset Balloon Festival for £5. However, please note that parking must be paid for online in advance and cannot be purchased on the day. Make sure to secure your parking spot early to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience at the festival.

If you'd like to be part of the magical mass balloon ascents, you can book a hot air balloon ride with us from the Dorset Balloon Festival. These rides will usually take place early mornings or afternoons across the event.

So, if you’d like to soar above Dorchester town centre and explore the stunning landscapes of Dorset, join us for a hot air balloon flight from the Dorset hot air balloon Festival and experience the magic of a mass ascent.

Missed This Festival? There's still time.

Vouchers purchased with Virgin Balloon Flights aren’t limited to festivals or launch sites themselves. Our vouchers are valid nationwide and can be used throughout our flying season, at any other hot air balloon festival we fly from, and any of our bookable launch sites.

Check out some of our locations nearby the Dorset Balloon Festival below.

Hot Air Balloon Launch Sites Near Dorset

If you can’t make it to the festival but still want to experience the magic of a hot air balloon flight, don’t worry! Here are some of our closest launch sites to the Dorchester Showground for a Dorset hot air balloon ride.

Getting to the Dorset Balloon Festival at the Dorchester Showground is easy, no matter how you prefer to travel.

Here are your options:

By Car

Driving to the festival is pretty straightforward. If you’re approaching Dorchester, simply follow the signs to the Dorchester Showground, located just off the A35 near the Kingston Maurward College roundabout. The showground is approximately 1 mile from the town centre inside the Dorchester Ring Road. There’s plenty of on-site parking available, but remember to book your parking spot online in advance for £5 to ensure a smooth arrival.

By Bus

Several local bus routes serve the Dorchester area. The X51 and X53 services connect Dorchester with nearby towns. Check the latest schedules and public transport directions to plan your trip and get off at the nearest stop to the showground.

By Train

Dorchester is well-connected by train, with two railway stations: Dorchester South and Dorchester West. Both stations are a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk from the showground. South Western Railway and Great Western Railway provide regular services from major cities like London, Bristol, and Weymouth.

By Walking

If you’re staying in Dorchester town centre, walking to the showground is a great option. Enjoy the fresh air and the charming local scenery as you make your way to the festival. The showground is easily accessible on foot, taking about 30 minutes from the town centre.

The Dorset Balloon Festival is much more than just hot air balloons—it's a family-friendly event packed with non stop fun for everyone! Enjoy tasty street food, live tribute acts, and kids entertainment to name just a few.

Mass Ascents

Witness the magic of mass ascents as dozens of hot air balloons lift off together. These stunning launches happen in the morning and evening, creating a beautiful sight over the Dorset countryside.

Night Glow Show

As evening falls, get ready for the night glow performance. Watch balloons light up in a synchronised display set to music, creating a truly enchanting experience.

Music Festival with Top Tribute Acts

From classic rock to pop favourites, the Dorset Balloon Festival has you covered with some fantastic tribute acts. Sing along and dance to the hits of Cher, Madonna, Ed Sheeran, Lewis Capaldi, Lady Gaga, and Adele. These performances will bring your favourite songs to life, making the festival's music scene something you won't want to miss.

BMX Stunt Shows

For those who love excitement, check out our BMX stunt shows. Watch amazing tricks and stunts performed by top riders. It's thrilling entertainment for all ages.

Dinosaur World

Explore Dinosaur World, where kids can meet lifelike dinosaurs and learn about these prehistoric creatures. It's an educational and fun experience for the whole family.

With so much happening over the weekend, here’s a complete agenda to help you plan ahead and make sure you don’t miss your favourite activities.

Saturday, 4th May | 11 am - 11 pm

• Mass balloon ascents

• Fireworks Display

• Night Glow Show (with approx. 20 Hot Air Balloons)

• Monster Truck Rides

• Jump Dogs Parachute Display

• Live music from Tribute Acts

• Original music performances on our massive outdoor stage

• 3 BMX & FMX Stunt Shows

• Family funfair with rides and amusements for all ages

• Food Hall with a variety of fresh options from local vendors

• Fully licensed Festival Bar

• Dinosaurs exhibit

• Market Traders

• Family activities including carnival games, petting zoo, face painting, and arts & crafts

Sunday, 5th May | 11am - 9 pm

• Mass balloon ascents

• Monster Truck Rides (The Red Dragon)

• Live music from Tribute Acts

• Original music performances on our massive outdoor stage

• 3 BMX & FMX Stunt Shows

• Family funfair with rides and amusements for all ages

• Food Hall with a variety of fresh options from local vendors

• Fully licensed Festival Bar

• Dinosaurs exhibit

• Craft Traders

• Family activities including carnival games, petting zoo, face painting, and arts & crafts

Weather plays a crucial role in hot air ballooning, as safety and visibility are paramount. Ideal conditions include clear skies, low wind speeds, and no rain. Our experienced pilots constantly monitor weather forecasts to ensure safe and enjoyable flights.

If conditions aren't perfect, flights may be rescheduled to guarantee the best possible experience. And remember, you can use your voucher at any of our nationwide launch sites, so you can always find a "hot air balloon ride near me" that fits your schedule.

Rest assured, your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities.

• Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy a full day of festivities by arriving early. Gates open at 8 am.

• Dress Comfortably: Living in the UK, we all know that the weather can be unpredictable, so wear layers and comfortable shoes. Don’t forget your sun cream and a hat!

• Bring a Blanket: Perfect for sitting on the grass during the Night Glow or having a picnic while watching the balloons take off.

• Stay Hydrated: With all the excitement, it's easy to forget to drink water. Keep a reusable water bottle with you.

• Capture the Moment: Bring your camera or smartphone to snap some stunning photos.

So if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, be sure to come and join us at the Dorchester Showground for an unforgettable weekend.

The magic of a hot air balloon festival is a must for your spring bucket list. With colourful mass balloon launches, live entertainment, and fun activities for the whole family, it's the perfect way to kick off the season.