Everything You Need to Know About the 2024 Northampton Balloon Festival

The Northampton Balloon Festival is back for another exhilarating year, promising three days of fun-filled entertainment for the whole family.

This annual event has become a highlight on the local calendar, drawing crowds from near and far. From live arena performances to captivating hot air balloon displays, there's something for everyone to enjoy at this year's festival and we've got everything you need to know about the 2024 event.

When and Where?

The festival will take place from Friday 16th to Sunday 18th August 2024, offering a long weekend of excitement and spectacle.

Head to the Northampton Racecourse in Northampton to experience the festivities firsthand. The spacious grounds provide the perfect setting for a wide range of activities and attractions.

Gates will be open from 12:00pm to 11:00pm each day, with the last entry at 10:00pm. This ensures plenty of time for you to explore everything the festival has to offer.

See the Hot Air Balloons

As you'd expect from the name, one of the main highlights of the Northampton Balloon Festival is the hot air balloon displays. Watch in awe as colourful balloons take to the skies, creating a breathtaking sight against the backdrop of Northampton Racecourse. The festival offers visitors the chance to witness both daytime flights and a captivating hot air balloon glow at sunset.

For those seeking a truly unforgettable experience, Vista Balloon Flights will be offering shared and exclusive flights throughout the weekend. Take to the skies and soar above the festival grounds, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the comfort of a hot air balloon basket.

Flight tickets are £225 per person and you can book them online now, giving you a chance to see the festival from a whole new perspective!

What's Else Is On?

Live Arena Shows
Get ready to be entertained with exhilarating live arena performances featuring Stunt World International, Bolddog FMX Motorbikes, Civil War Camp & Enactment, and the Jump Dogs Parachute Team. From daring stunts to historical reenactments, there's no shortage of excitement to be found in the festival's main arena.

Circus Workshops
Join Flotsam the Fool's Circus Workshops for a fun-filled experience that's perfect for the whole family. Learn new skills, try your hand at juggling or acrobatics, and unleash your inner performer under the guidance of experienced circus professionals.

Immersive Experiences
Step back in time with immersive experiences such as The Vikings' journey into the Early Middle Ages, complete with a skirmish display that brings history to life before your eyes. Explore the sights, sounds, and stories of centuries past as you delve into the rich tapestry of Viking culture.

Funfair and Trade Stalls
Indulge your sense of adventure with a visit to the festival's funfair, featuring a wide range of thrilling rides and attractions for all ages. Plus, browse the variety of trade stalls offering everything from handmade crafts to unique souvenirs, ensuring there's something for everyone to discover.

Food and Drink
Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure with a diverse selection of festival food and drinks available throughout the weekend. From mouthwatering street food to refreshing beverages, there's no shortage of delicious options to satisfy your cravings.

The Fireworks Finale
No festival is complete without an awesome fireworks display and the Northampton Balloon Festival has a fantastic one planned for the Sunday night, meaning that you'll have one more great reason to look to the skies while you're at the festival this year.

With so much to see and do, the Northampton Balloon Festival promises an unforgettable weekend of entertainment and excitement for attendees of all ages.

Getting Tickets

Tickets are priced at just £2.75 per person including booking fees, making it a seriously affordable day or weekend for families and individuals alike.

Tickets can be bought in advance online at Skiddle.

Getting to the Festival

The festival will be held at the Northampton Racecourse, Barrack Rd, Northampton, England NN2 6AA. There are lots of options for how to get to the venue

Using Public Transport

Northampton Racecourse is conveniently located close to Northampton Railway Station, making it easily accessible by train. The station offers regular services connecting to major cities across the UK, including London, Birmingham, and Leicester. From the station, you can either take a short walk or catch a local bus to the racecourse. Check the National Rail website or your preferred train operator for schedules and ticket prices.

If you prefer to travel by bus, several local bus routes serve Northampton Racecourse, providing convenient access from various parts of the town and surrounding areas. Look out for bus stops near the venue and check the local bus operator's website or app for route maps, timetables, and fares.

Travelling By Car

For those traveling by car, ample parking facilities will be available onsite at Northampton Racecourse. There will be designated parking areas for festival attendees, with attendants on hand to guide you to available spaces. Please follow signage and instructions from event staff upon arrival to ensure a smooth parking experience.

Northampton Racecourse is located off the A4500 Kettering Road, easily accessible from major road networks including the M1 motorway. Use GPS navigation or online mapping services to plan your route in advance and avoid any potential traffic congestion or road closures.

By Bicycle

If you're a cycling enthusiast or prefer eco-friendly transport options, consider traveling to the festival by bicycle. Northampton Racecourse is equipped with bicycle racks where you can securely park your bike during the event. Plan your cycling route using local cycle paths and roads, and enjoy a scenic journey to the festival grounds.

Accessibility
The festival organisers are committed to ensuring that the event is accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities or special requirements. If you require accessible transport options, such as wheelchair-accessible buses or taxis, consider booking in advance to ensure availability and convenience. Alternatively, contact the festival organisers for assistance or recommendations on accessible transport providers.

Accommodation
If you're planning to stay overnight and make a weekend of it, there are plenty of accommodation options available in the vicinity of Northampton Racecourse. From hotels and guesthouses to bed and breakfasts, you'll find something to suit every budget and preference. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment.

And that's it, that's everything you need to know about the Northampton Balloon Festival. So all that's left to do is buy your ticket, plan how you're getting there and enjoy the event when you get there.

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