Classic 1990s Sonic the Hedgehog Balloon Returns to Bristol's Balloon Fiesta

British Sonic the Hedgehog fans who grew up in the 1990s might get a real hit of nostalgia this weekend, as the classic Sonic Balloon made a surprise return to Bristol's 45th annual Balloon Fiesta, an event that runs until Sunday.

The colossal inflatable, provided by MJ Ballooning, was inflated on Thursday this week ahead of an evening ascent that eventually ended up getting cancelled - but the Bristol International Balloon Festival was still kind enough to share this photo of the big blue making his iconic pose.

This particular Sonic balloon has a lot of sentimental value for UK Sonic fans (including myself!), as this absolute unit is no stranger to the Bristol Balloon Fiesta - or major media coverage in general. Originally developed by Virgin Airship and Balloon Company in the 1990s, 'Sonic' was designed to support the release of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 in the UK.

Following the launch of the iconic Mega Drive sequel, it was also used prominently in SEGA UK sponsorship events throughout the 1990s, including the Williams team during a number of Formula 1 championships. If you're curious to learn more, you can check out a blog post from one of the masterminds behind the balloon's design here.

The Bristol Balloon Fiesta is a free event, and it's on until this Sunday, although we're not sure if Sonic will be inflated again to make any more ascents (we have asked the events team though!). There will be ascents taking place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 6am and 6pm, so fingers crossed we will see Sonic fly through the sky once more.

If you live nearby, check out the event's website here for travel details. If you're stuck though, there are shuttle busses running from Bristol Temple Meads so you don't have to think about it too much (thanks for the tip, @castell-neath!)