Last year in 2023, I came across the Northampton Balloon Festival for the first time. We had an enjoyable time as there is a lot to do and see. Now that we know a little more about the event, we bought early bird tickets and attended again for 2024

This year the event is running from Friday 16th to the 18th of August. The event was on the same scale and the only difference was that we attended later in the day. We then had a picnic with us and we were able to see the balloon flights in the evening with about 16 balloon launches.

For more info about the event:

https://thenorthamptonballoonfestival.co.uk

Below is my review of the 2023 event last year.

I came across this festival by accident. The Northamptonshire Magic Club were advertising on their Facebook page that they were attending the the show and had a stall.

The Northampton Balloon Festival was running from Friday the 18th through to Sunday the 20th of August. Starting at 12pm each day through to 10.30pm at night.

While you could book in advance for a reduced fee, tickets on the day are reasonable with adults at £4 and under 16’s £3. Car parking is close by within the vacinity and costs just £5 a car.

We attended on the Saturday afternoon and while no balloon flights were taking place that day due to the weather, there was lots to do.

The event appeared to be very well planned with private firm/security running the event.

Many different shows are available to watch which includes stunt shows and re-enactments of the American Civil War. Also equine events and hot air balloon launches when weather permitted.

The site is massive with lots of space for all. Many food vans which is mainly burgers, chips and noodles along with a drinks bar.

A big draw for families is of course the fun fair. Other attractions such as birds of prey, circus skills and many other events offer variety.

The large marques host charities and community stalls along with general stalls to purchase pictures, food, crafts etc.

For more details, do visit the main site here: https://thenorthamptonballoonfestival.co.uk

See below for a small gallery of pictures from the day.

I would definitely attend again next year but would probably go later in the day with the hope of seeing balloon glows and fireworks.

NMC David Miller entertaining the Major

Lovely to meet the Northamptonshire Magic club and thank you for entertaining my family.

Balloon Glows at night

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About the author

Martin Brophy is the creator of everythingelse.blog, a UK-based culture and entertainment blog covering film, television, live events and nostalgic media. With a background in customer service, logistics, IT and management, he brings a sharp eye for audience experience and value to every review. He is also the creator of Magic Seats, a dedicated content channel spotlighting UK magic shows and performers.

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