From factory shadows to fiesta fame, meet Ralph the Rozière! Every balloon has a story, but few rival the unexpected charm and journey of Ralph, a once forgotten Rozière balloon that’s now one of the favourites in our special shape collection and stealing the spotlight at the UK’s biggest ballooning events. Here’s the story of how this balloon was brought back to life and transformed into a crowd favourite with a bit of creativity and imagination. From overlooked to unforgettable, Ralph proves that even the simplest shapes can make a big impression.

On Sunday 11th May, we brought three of our special shape hot air balloons to life at Snake Meadows in Saltford. What started as a quiet idea turned into a relaxed evening with friends, a few hundred spectators, and some rare shapes that don’t come out often. From Sonic the Hedgehog to a giant Nivea roll-on, it was one of those simple but satisfying ballooning nights that reminds us why we do it.

It started as a casual chat on a sunny evening in Bristol and ended with one of the most iconic special shapes in ballooning history landing in my collection. Here’s the incredible story of how the legendary Jesus balloon, now known as the Miracle Man, made its way from a dusty crate in Albuquerque to a sunrise inflation at Ashton Court.

Part two of our special shape blog series talking about the greatest add-on special shapes to ever grace the skies. Some loved and recognisable characters in this second part, but which balloon will take the number one spot? Let’s find out!

Hot air balloons come in all shapes and sizes, but some designs go far beyond simple creativity; they push the boundaries of engineering. Among them, add-on special shapes stand out for their unique construction - built from a traditional teardrop “round” envelope but transformed with intricate appendages like arms, legs, or other larger, complex features. Some designs push the limits of what’s possible in balloon manufacturing, requiring expert craftsmanship and clever engineering to ensure they not only inflate properly but also remain stable in flight.

Following on from our three-part blog series named Ballooning Brilliance: The Greatest Special Shapes of All Time, we wanted to add another shorter post sharing our top 100 special shapes list with you all.

Welcome to Part 3 of our blog series celebrating the most extraordinary special shape hot air balloons ever created from all around the world. From intricate structures to jaw-dropping creativity, we’re diving into some of the most incredible flying works of art ever to grace the skies. Get ready for our grand top five finale…

Part 2 of our special shape blog series exploring the greatest special shape hot air balloons ever created for their complex structures and epic designs. Join us as we share some of the best and craziest flying creations the world has ever seen.

Special shape balloons are unique - there are no two the same. Whether it’s a product replica such as a beer bottle or shopping trolley built to advertise, or a made up character purely made for fun, these creations are always fascinating to look at and steal the show at events and festivals they attend. Hot air balloons not in the conventional teardrop shape combine artistry, engineering, and creativity to create a spectacle that captivates people of all ages.

The historic Icicle Balloon Meet returned to Newbury for its 53rd year on Saturday 4th January, held at the beatutiful Donnington Grove hotel and golf club. Saturday saw 20 balloons take flight in freezing but calm conditions, followed by tethering of a number of old envelopes including our retro Choc Dips tub special shape returning after quite some years!