Hot air balloons ascending over Leicester — what's not to love? The Leicester Balloon Festival transforms Victoria Park into a sky-bound spectacle, with tethered flights, full launches, and the unmissable night glow that makes even seasoned festival-goers pause mid-pint to look up.
🎟️Get tickets for Leicester Balloon Festival →What's on
Three days of hot air balloon action, running 19–21 June. Expect balloon tethering for those who fancy a gentle ascent, full launches for the committed adventurers, and the showstopper: the balloon night glow, where dozens of balloons illuminate after dark. The arena hosts stunt shows and period enactments throughout the weekend, so there's plenty to do when your neck's tired from gazing skyward.
The vibe
Picture families planted on the grass, thermoses in hand, watching giant fabric spheres bob gently against the Leicestershire sky. It's part county fair, part aviation spectacle — with just enough drama from the stunt performers to keep things lively. The night glow transforms the whole thing into something almost magical, with the balloons glowing like enormous lanterns. Casual, crowd-friendly, and genuinely spectacular when the light's right.
Getting tickets
Ticketing details and prices will be confirmed nearer the date via the official festival page. Standard practice for festivals of this type means day tickets and weekend passes, though specific rates aren't yet live.
Where to stay
Leicester city centre sits just a short distance from Victoria Park. We've picked a selection of hotels within easy reach of the venue, so you can base yourself centrally and get to the balloons without faffing about.
Getting there
Leicester is well-connected by rail — trains run regularly from London St Pancras, Birmingham New Street, and Manchester Piccadilly. If you're driving, the M1 and M69 get you close; Victoria Park is accessible from the city centre. Local buses also serve the area on festival days.
🧳 Travel essentials
🏨 Where to stay nearby
🥂 Premium stays 5-star
💷 Budget-friendly under £120/nt
📍 The venue
Victoria Park
London Road
🎟️ Top things to do in Leicester
Skip the queues with pre-booked tickets. Compare prices across GetYourGuide and Tiqets — both offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
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