The Oswestry Hot Air Balloon Carnival, a free two-day festival featuring more than 20 hot air balloons, live music, and family entertainment, will take place on August 22 and 23, 2026, in the Shropshire market town of Oswestry, just 80 minutes from Birmingham.
What to Expect at the Balloon Carnival
Organised by Nightingale House Hospice, Oswestry Town Council, and Oswestry BID, the event is free to attend, with voluntary donations encouraged to support hospice services. Balloon launches include a sunset launch and a 'night glow' spectacular from Cae Glas Park. Entertainment includes food pop-ups, local produce and craft stalls, live music, street entertainers, Punch & Judy shows, cheerleading displays, and BMX performances.
A spokesman said: "Join us for the Oswestry Balloon Carnival 2026, taking place on the 22nd & 23rd August 2026! This two-day family-friendly event is held in the heart of Oswestry... Don't miss out on this unforgettable weekend of festivities for all ages!"
Other Attractions in Oswestry
Beyond the carnival, Oswestry offers independent shops, cafes, and street markets. Visitors can explore Cambrian Heritage Railways and the British Ironworks Centre, which features a sculpture park popular with children.
Getting to Oswestry from Birmingham
By car, take the M54 and A5, a journey of about 80 minutes. By train, direct services from Birmingham New Street to Gobowen take around 1 hour 20 minutes, with Oswestry three miles from the station.
