On October 6-15 Albuquerque celebrates a 35-year-old tradition. Started in 1972, this international event drawing upwards of 100,000 spectators began with a small group of just 13 hot air balloons!

Since the first official Balloon Fiesta in 1978, the number of balloons has soared to more than 700 (with over 100 special shaped balloons). The Balloon Fiesta has become the biggest balloon event in the world. Last year, over 28 countries entered the event.

Today, the fiesta takes place at Albuquerque’s Balloon Fiesta Park located off I-25 north and one mile west of the Alameda Road exit.

If you’re so inclined, you may be able to wrangle a free hot air balloon ride by “crewing” on a balloonist’s team. Otherwise, there are several companies that offer private balloon rides. Check out:

www.thebestballoonride.com
www.privateballoonflights.com www.rainbowryders.com

Masss Ascension

Saturdays and Sundays during the event, balloonists lift off en masse from Balloon Fiesta Park. Spectators can enjoy this event from 7 a.m.-8:30 a.m. and balloons can be seen floating and landing throughout the city the rest of the morning. Weather Warning: Be sure to bring a coat, early mornings can be chilly in October.

Balloon Glow

As the sun goes down, the fiesta gears up with the Balloon Glow®. Balloonists prepare to light their fires simultaneously, creating soft colors and lights with their balloons. Enjoy this night event Sunday October 8th from 5:45 p.m. to 8 p.m. Stay for the AfterGlow — an exciting display of fireworks.

Balloon Museum

Want to find out more information about balloons? You can all year long at The Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum. First opening its doors to the public on October 15, 2005, the museum has several exhibits and artifacts related to the history of ballooning.

The museum even offers viewing decks for balloon fiesta events! Located at 9201 Balloon Museum Dr NE, the museum is a hop, skip and jump from Balloon Fiesta Park.

The museum offers educational services to all visitors and has special events for students. Admission is $4/general, $3/NM residents, $2/65+, $1/4-12 and free/children under 4.

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