Everything You Need to Know About the Abingdon Fireworks & Hot Air Balloon Festival 2024

Get ready for an unforgettable day out at the Abingdon Fireworks & Hot Air Balloon Festival on Saturday, 31st August 2024.

Held at Abingdon Airfield, this year’s festival is packed with activities and attractions for the whole family. From the moment the gates open at 3:00pm, you can enjoy a wide range of entertainment including world-class fireworks, hot air balloon displays, live performers, a fun fair and loads more family-friendly attractions.

Here’s all you need to know to make the most of your visit.

When & Where

• Date: Saturday, 31st August 2024
• Time: 3:00pm to 11:00pm
• Location: Abingdon Airfield, Barrow Road, Shippon, OX13 6JQ

What's On?

The festival boasts an impressive lineup of attractions that are sure to keep everyone entertained throughout the day including:

• Main Fireworks Display and Light Show: The highlight of the evening is the UK’s biggest firework display set to music, promising a 'pyrotheatrical' light and laser show that lasts a staggering 45 minutes. YES, 45 MINUTES!!
• Daylight Colour Smoke Displays: Enjoy vibrant smoke displays that add a burst of colour to the daytime sky.
• Hot Air Balloon Displays: Watch dozens of colourful balloons inflating and filling the event with colour (note: balloon rides are not available).
• Flying Displays: Marvel at the Spitfire & Hurricane Air Display and the Rich Goodwin Muscle Plane Display.
• Live Performances: Enjoy stilt walkers, the Bubble Man, fire performers, and roaming music by The Brass Holes Roaming Band.

Additional Attractions (Not Included in Your Ticket Price):

• Charity Bungee Jump
• Helicopter Rides
• Monster Truck Rides
• Bounce Fest - Inflatable Playground
• Fairground Rides and Games
• Face Painting

The Event Schedule

To help you plan your day and make the most of everything that's going on, here’s a breakdown of the day’s events and timings:

• 12:00pm: Campsite Opens (for camping permit holders)
• 3:00pm: Car Park, Gates, and Fairground Open
• 4:00pm: Hurricane & Spitfire Air Display
• 4:30pm: The Brass Holes Roaming Band
• 5:30pm: Rich Goodwin Muscle Plane Air Display
• 6:00pm: The Brass Holes Roaming Band
• 7:00pm: Daylight Fireworks Display
• 8:30pm: European Fireworks Demonstration
• 9:15pm: The Main 45 Minute Pyrotheatrical Display!
• 11:00pm: Fairground and Event Closes

Tickets and Pricing

To make the most of your day and save on ticket costs, it’s best to book online in advance:

• Adult (16+): £28 (save £4)
• Child (3-15 Years): £14 (save £2)
• Family Ticket (2 Adults + 2 Children): £75 (save £10)
• Infant (0-2 Years): Free

Tickets are also available on the day at higher prices, so booking ahead is recommended.

Parking and Accessibility

Parking is free on-site, with accessible parking available for blue badge holders. The car parks open at 2pm, so plan to arrive early to secure a spot.

Camping and Gazebo Permits

For those wanting to stay close to the action, there are a limited number of camping pitches available near the arena. The campsite opens at midday on Saturday. You can also purchase a gazebo permit, allowing you to set up a 3m x 3m gazebo in a pre-marked area for a sheltered base throughout the event.

Food and Drink

The festival features an Artisan Food Village with a variety of food stalls, drinks, and licensed bars. Whether you fancy a quick snack or a more substantial meal, there’s something for everyone. Feel free to bring your own picnic if you prefer though!

Getting to Abingdon Airfield

Reaching Abingdon Airfield for the Fireworks & Hot Air Balloon Festival is straightforward whether you're coming from nearby or further afield.

Here's a guide to help you plan your journey:

By Car

Abingdon Airfield (Barrow Road, Shippon, OX13 6JQ) is conveniently located just off the A34, making it easily accessible by car from various parts of the UK.

Directions:

• From the North: Follow the A34 southbound and take the exit towards Abingdon. Follow the signs for the airfield.
• From the South: Follow the A34 northbound and take the exit towards Abingdon. Follow the signs for the airfield.
• From the M4: Take the exit at Junction 13 onto the A34 northbound. Follow the signs towards Abingdon and then to the airfield.

By Train

The nearest train stations to Abingdon Airfield are Didcot Parkway and Oxford.

• Didcot Parkway: Approximately 10 miles from the airfield. Taxis are available outside the station, or you can catch a bus to Abingdon and then a taxi to the airfield.
• Oxford: Approximately 8 miles from the airfield. From Oxford station, you can take a taxi or a bus to Abingdon and then a taxi to the airfield.

By Bus

Local bus services run regularly to Abingdon from surrounding areas, including Oxford and Didcot. Once in Abingdon, you can take a short taxi ride to the airfield.

• From Oxford: Stagecoach and Thames Travel operate regular services to Abingdon.
• From Didcot: Thames Travel operates regular services to Abingdon.

By Bicycle

For those who prefer a more eco-friendly option, cycling to Abingdon Airfield is a great choice. The Sustrans National Cycle Route 5 runs through Abingdon, providing a scenic and safe route to the airfield.

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