Bristol is preparing for one of its most anticipated events of the summer, the Bristol Balloon Fiesta, which will take place from Friday, August 8 to Sunday, August 10. With up to 100,000 visitors expected each day, drivers should prepare for significant traffic delays across the city and on surrounding motorways.
National Highways has issued a specific warning about heavy congestion at junction 19 on the M5. Southbound traffic is expected to back up as visitors use this junction to access the A369 and the Fiesta site. Junction 21 is also set for increased northbound traffic as drivers take the A370 towards the event. Additionally, the M32 will be a busy route for those traveling through Bristol.
Kathryn Wiltshire, National Highways’ network planning officer for the South West, urged road users to prepare in advance. “Roads leading to the Balloon Fiesta will be very busy,” she said. “We encourage drivers to check traffic updates, allow extra travel time, and start their journeys early.”
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The festival includes exciting evening events with night glows on Friday and Saturday from 9pm to 10pm, while gates close at 8:30pm. The iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge will be closed from 6pm until midnight on both evenings, which may impact local traffic.
Celebrating its status as one of the UK’s largest hot air balloon festivals, this year’s free event will showcase over 100 balloons from around the world. Weather permitting, six spectacular mass ascents will take place throughout the weekend, offering a breathtaking sight for attendees.
With such large crowds expected, travellers are advised to plan their journey carefully and embrace the festive atmosphere while managing the potential traffic challenges.