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The event's primary charity partnership is with the Lingen Davies Sunflower Appeal, the chosen charity of the Mayor of Telford & Wrekin Council. Throughout the Balloon Fiesta weekend, visitors will be able to support the appeal through a new reusable cup scheme being introduced across the event.

For just £2, visitors can exchange reusable cups throughout the event, helping to reduce single-use plastic waste while also raising money for the Lingen Davies Sunflower Appeal.  

We are encouraging all visitors to return their cups for re-use into the sunflower baskets, for every cup returned a contribution will go to support the charity's work to help grow cancer services across our region with the development of the new cancer centre at Princess Royal Hospital in Telford.

The initiative reflects the Balloon Fiesta's commitment to both supporting local charities and making the event as environmentally sustainable as possible. Telford Book Club will also be present donating funds raised to Lingen Davies.

A second charity being highlighted during the event is Mr Motivator's Bed Bank, a campaign raising awareness of bed poverty across the UK.

Mr Motivator, who will be appearing at the sold-out Night Glow on Friday evening, is using his platform to shine a light on the hidden issue affecting nearly one million children who do not have a bed of their own. The Bed Bank works with local charities and community groups to help provide beds and bedding to families in need, ensuring children have a safe and comfortable place to sleep and the best possible start in life.

Councillor Nathalie Page, Mayor for Telford & Wrekin Council, said: “I’m delighted that the Balloon Fiesta is supporting the Lingen Davies Sunflower Appeal, which is my chosen charity during my mayoral year. The reusable cup scheme is a fantastic way for visitors to contribute to a cause that makes a real difference to local people while also helping us reduce waste and improve the environmental sustainability of the event.

"The Balloon Fiesta is all about bringing communities together and creating memorable experiences, and it's wonderful that we can also use the event to raise awareness and support for important charitable causes."

Andy Mackay, Telford Community Fundraiser for Lingen Davies, said: "We are incredibly grateful to be the main charity supported at this year's Balloon Fiesta. Every reusable cup purchased will help fund enhanced local cancer services for patients and families across our communities. We would encourage visitors to get behind the scheme, keep their cup throughout the weekend and help us make a positive difference."

Mr Motivator said: "Every child deserves a safe, comfortable bed and the opportunity to wake up rested, ready to learn and thrive. Sadly, bed poverty is a reality for far too many families across the country. I'm delighted that the Balloon Fiesta is helping us raise awareness of this important issue, and I encourage people to find out more about the work of the Bed Bank and how they can support families in need."

The Balloon Fiesta takes place from 28 to 30 August, with the sold-out Night Glow on Friday evening followed by two days of free family entertainment, spectacular balloon displays and activities in Telford Town Park. Find out more on the Telford Theatre website.