THOUSANDS of people flocked to a castle for a first of its kind festival.

Cheshire Balloon Fiesta was held over the weekend with more than 15,000 tickets sold for the maiden event.

Balloonists travelled from across Europe as over 30 hot air balloons took to the skies above Bolesworth Castle.

Organiser John Lowery was delighted with how everything went and is already looking ahead to 2024.

He said: "We are thrilled with the reception our first-ever Cheshire Balloon Fiesta has received!

“We welcomed over 15,000 visitors to Bolesworth Castle across the weekend, with over 40 balloon flights taking place, including lots of special shaped balloons which came from across Europe to wow the crowds.

“The closing firework display was spectacular and a fitting end to a fabulous weekend of family entertainment.

“We are planning to return to Cheshire next year, more details will be announced soon!”

Northwich Guardian: Over 15,000 tickets were sold for the three-day eventOver 15,000 tickets were sold for the three-day event (Image: Milner Creative)

Getting underway on Friday (August 4) crowds were treated to launches and night glows featuring a range of colourful balloons including some shaped as dogs, frogs, bears and a chick in an egg.

On the ground visitors were treated to a wide variety of entertainment, with performances from Gabrielle, Disco Classical, Sister Sledge, Rak-Su, Phats & Small, Scouting for Girls, Ministry of Sound, The Vamps, Megan McKenna, Boyzlife, Chris Moyles 90s Hangover and Heather Small.

There was also some more interactive entertainment to enjoy, from yoga and raves for children to a roller rink and craft tents, as well as appearances from characters such as Bluey and the Paw Patrol team.

Cheshire Balloon Fiesta came to a close on Sunday night (August 6) with fireworks display.

Northwich Guardian: The Vamps perform at Cheshire Balloon FiestaThe Vamps perform at Cheshire Balloon Fiesta (Image: Milner Creative)

Plans are underway for next year’s Fiesta and it’s fair to say excitement is already building.

One attendee, Lou Ewert, said: “We are already planning next year! Amazing weekend, everything was just perfect.”

Another, Laura Burrows, said: “We came as a last minute on the Friday, it was so good. Wish we could have done the full weekend!”

And Sally Turner-Holme added: “So well organised! Loved every minute of it. Amazing for the kids too!”

Northwich Guardian: The Fiesta came to a close with a fireworks displayThe Fiesta came to a close with a fireworks display (Image: Milner Creative)