One of the UK's biggest and best hot air balloon events is set to return to Wiltshire at the historic Longleat estate.
The 2024 Icons of the Sky event will take place at Longleat Safari Park from September 13 to 15 and will feature aeroplane acrobatics, iconic warplanes, helicopter displays, wing walkers, fireworks and the event's iconic night glow.
The family-friendly event is in celebration of all things flight and is held in the same location where an early hot air balloon flight landed two centuries ago.
Pioneering balloonist George Graham - who was married to Margaret Graham, Britain's first female balloonist - took off in a hot air balloon from Bath in 1824 and landed in Longleat where he was greeted by the 2nd Marquess of Bath at the time.
Longleat remains steeped in ballooning history and is now home to the 2nd Marquess' great, great, great, great-grandson.
“Our 2024 event will be an air festival like Longleat has never seen before," said Scott Ashman, Longleat's head of operations.
"There are many new attractions, and we are looking forward to welcoming them all, especially the warbirds.
“The legendary Spitfire and Tiger Moths will fly over the estate each day which will be an incredible sight to behold.
“In addition, the festival will feature high-energy acrobatics, wing walkers, pyrotechnic air displays as well as our tethered morning balloon display and our night glow.
“All of this is on top of our usual fabulous entertainment for all the family."
Tickets to the event will also include a drive through the Safari Park, access to the Animal Adventure, Longleat Railway and a boat ride on the lake.
Among the tethered hot balloons taking part in the night glow this year will be family favourites Rupert the Bear, Thomas the Tank Engine, Elii the Elephant, Michelin Man and two dogs Buster and Bella, making their first appearance at Longleat.
“We are expecting tickets to literally fly out of the door," added Scott.
To get tickets, visit longleat.co.uk/tickets/standard.
The full details and timings of the day can be found below:
- 7.15am - 9am Mass Ascent
- 9.15am - 10.15am Model Balloon Display
- 10.30am - 2pm Tethering & Meet the Teams
- 2.30pm - 4.45pm Air Display
- 5pm - 7pm Mass Ascent
- 7.45pm- 8pm Pyrotechnic Air Display
- 8pm - 8.20pm Night Glow
- 8.25pm - 8.30pm Firework Finale
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