3 days ago
Hot air balloon festival to 'highlight popularity of Basildon' this summer
THE skies above Basildon will come alive this summer as the town hosts an exciting new family-friendly hot air balloon festival.
Spanning the last weekend of July, the Essex Balloons and Tunes festival will take place at Basildon Sporting Village and feature live music, tribute acts, and stunt shows alongside breath taking hot air balloon demonstrations.
The choice of Basildon as the location for the county-wide event has been welcomed by Labour's council leader, Gavin Callaghan, as a sign of the town's growing status as a leisure destination.
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Festival - Basildon Sporting Village will host the balloon festival (Image: George Pizani)
'We're delighted to be able welcome such an exciting nationwide event to the borough, which will give residents the opportunity to enjoy some fantastic, family-friendly fun while creating lifelong memories, right here on their doorstep,' said Mr Callaghan.
'This three-day extravaganza has something for everyone, and it highlights the growing popularity of Basildon as one of the top events destinations across Essex.'
While the focus of the Balloons and Tunes festival will be the impressive hot air balloons set to hover above Gloucester Park, attendees will also be able to enjoy tribute performances to popular artists, high-energy motocross stunt shows, character meet-and-greets and firework displays.
Win - Mr Callaghan says the festival is a sign of Basildon's growing popularity (Image: Basildon Council) In addition to tribute performances, musical entertainment will be provided by The Only Way is Essex's James Argent.
The event will be delivered by Balloons and Tunes UK, who run similar festivals across the country, and run from Friday July 25 to Sunday July 27.
A description from Balloons and Tunes UK reads: 'Our festivals offer a vibrant mix of attractions, including spectacular hot air balloon shows, stunning performances, exciting Funfair Rides, and a diverse line-up of live music.'
Under the leadership of Mr Callaghan, Basildon Council has been working to boost the town's leisure and hospitality offerings.
Plans are currently being drawn up for a 5,000-seat live entertainment arena and hotel in the town centre, which Mr Callaghan hopes will be the go-to destination for touring artists and shows in Essex.
You can find out more about Essex Balloons and Tunes as well as purchasing your tickets at
