Starting from today, this weekend will see some of the most impressive hot air balloons descend on the popular Longleat Safari Park in the south west of England.
The fiesta, scheduled over three days, is one of the biggest events in the ballooning calendar. Following a few quiet years due to COVID-19 restrictions, the team behind the Sky Safari are hopeful that this event will be bigger than ever. Balloonists are expected to attend the Sky Safari from all over the world.
Longleat’s own animal-shaped balloons will make an appearance at the event. This year, visitors can expect to come face to face with a lion, a koala, a cheetah, a sheep, a flying rabbit and a panther. Three penguins named Splash, Puddles and Tall Steve will also make their ascents alongside a balloon called Wes the Wolf.
The family-friendly event will offer visitors the chance to watch a dawn ascent of the balloons, and an evening mass launch. Morning and evening are the best times for balloons to fly, thanks to the meteorological conditions that are expected. A classic night glow will also delight visitors as night descends.
Throughout the day, balloons will be tethered so visitors can see them from close up. Music, food and dancing are also planned to keep people entertained.
This event reinforces that hot air ballooning is as popular as ever. For those who want to get their own taste of what awaits in the skies, a hot air balloon adventure over the south west of England can be had.
