Overview

• No hot air balloons flew at the Manchester stop after wind speeds exceeded the festival’s under-10 mph safety threshold
• Event tickets explicitly stated that balloon displays were weather dependent and organizers capped attendance at the licensed 5,500 limit
• Families who paid up to £58 for entry and additional ride fees reported overcrowding, scarce vendors and missing attractions
• An event spokesperson reiterated that wind direction and speed criteria are mandatory for safe balloon flights and that alternative entertainment was provided
• Dozens of attendees have taken to social media to demand refunds and accuse the festival of misleading marketing and poor value