Teenage Cancer Trust returns as iconic Bristol International Balloon Fiesta’s official charity partner

The landmark Bristol event will return to Ashton Court Estate from 10th - 13 August 2023

The UK’s only charity dedicated to meeting the complex needs of young adults and teenagers fighting cancer, Teenage Cancer Trust, will once again be the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta’s official charity partner.

Going through cancer without the right support can damage a young person for life. When you’re 18, the future is wide open, there’s a world of possibilities out there, and you can’t wait to find your way in it. Then you hear the three words you least expected to hear: “You have cancer”. Teenage Cancer Trust ensures no young people will have to go through this journey alone.

Hosting an array of classic community entertainment at its on-site area at the Fiesta - including a tombola, raffles and an array of children’s activities - the charity will also be fundraising at the Fiesta’s iconic nightglow.

Banita Mistry, Relationship Manager at Teenage Cancer Trust commented: “We are incredibly proud that Bristol International Balloon Fiesta has chosen to partner with Teenage Cancer Trust once again after the success of last year’s event. Each donation made by those attending across the four-days will go towards helping so many young people with cancer. We are truly thankful for every pound that is donated to helping us change lives.”

Seven young people aged 13-24 are diagnosed with cancer every day, affecting their relationships, exams, careers and life plans. Teenage Cancer Trust provides specialist services to young people affected across the UK as well as events to help them regain their independence and meet other people going through a similar experience.

Bristol has two specialist facilities, Bristol’s Children’s Hospital and Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre. The specialist nurses and support teams based in these facilities and around the South West support young people in the city and surrounding areas to ensure they get the necessary access to specialist age-appropriate care, from psychological, emotional, financial, practical, educational or social support.

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta will celebrate its 45th year in 2023 and has grown into one of Europe’s largest annual hot air balloon festivals. More than 500,000 people attended Ashton Court Estate throughout last year’s Fiesta proving it remains a staple in the Bristol calendar.

Visitors will be welcomed back to the ground of Ashton Court Estate on Thursday 10th August at midday with hot air balloons tethering throughout the afternoon, followed by the first mass assent of the festival taking place at 6pm.

The much-loved Nightglows will light the faces of Fiesta-goers on Thursday and Saturday as late night visitors can witness more than 20 hot air balloons transform into giant light bulbs, as the roaring burners light up in sync with a soothing soundtrack.

As always, a plethora of family entertainment will take place over the weekend with a selection of Bristol’s finest street food vendors, live music, fun fair, and the VIP Sky Lounge.

Visitors are encouraged to plan their journey ahead of time and book their car parking in advance.