Bristol hosts Europe's largest free hot-air balloon event, the Tesco/GWRfm International Balloon Fiesta, from 10-13 August in parkland at Ashton Court.

Half a million visitors and about 150 balloons are expected during the four days but the festival is not just for aviators. On the ground children can choose between inflatable playgrounds and fairgrounds while there will be displays from, among others, the Red Devils parachute team and the Thunderfoot Monster Trucks.

The big news this year is the arrival of the Air Bounce balloon, which is seven metres in diameter and stuffed with helium. Riders (aged seven and above) are firmly strapped into a harness before the tethered balloon floats into the sky. Air Bounce will be at the Fiesta on 12 and 13 August and is already a massive craze in the United States.

Thursday's highlight is the Night Glow at 9.30pm when 30 balloons glow in time to music and fireworks. Mass balloon launches take place at 6am and 6pm over the weekend. Call 0117 966 5324 for more information.