Hot air balloons take to the sky - in pictures
A city has woken up to a sky full of hot air balloons ahead of the return of an annual fiesta.
The fleet of balloons took off from College Green in Bristol this morning ahead of the 48th Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, which returns to the city from 7 - 9 August.
The free event will be held at Ashton Court Estate and feature a range of activities in the air and on the ground, including daily mass ascents, performances and the famous "night glows".
Organisers have promised an "unforgettable celebration of ballooning, local culture, and community spirit" for this year's event.
More than 100 hot air balloons are expected to take part in the mass ascents this year, which are set for lift-off twice a day over the fiesta, weather permitting.
Balloons of all shapes and sizes from across the UK, Belgium, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Germany, Mexico and the United States will take part in the spectacle.
Every launch will be tracked by live flight control in partnership with Great Western Railway.
Spectators can follow along in real-time via a giant screen from the edge of the launch field, or watch online.
As well as the balloon-centric entertainment, visitors can meet pilots, watch a motorcycle stunt show and join an immersive experience called "In the Clouds".
Live acoustic music will be performed throughout the fiesta to showcase local talent.
Children can also soak up the fun at the Brizzle Kicks Stage, which will feature magic shows and foam parties.
Follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.
