The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

The biggest hot-air ballooning event in the world is held each year during the first week in October. Hundred of thousands of enthusiasts, residents and visitors from all over the world attend this nine-day annual Fiesta tradition making Albuquerque the “Balloon Capital of the World”.

Just imagine the colorful sight of a massive simultaneous ascension of over 700 balloons of every color, size and shape, and it happens on weekend mornings and midweek during the Fiesta period just after morning dawn. The sight of several hundred balloons taking flight all at once at sunrise is stunning.

And if that isn’t enough spectacle, imagine Balloon Glow® and other balloon illumination events held in the evenings. Tethered balloons light their propane burners against a dark sky. As they lift-off the balloons simply come alive across the Albuquerque sky like giant colorful light bulbs. Special shaped balloons like dinosaurs, flowers, space shuttle and cow jumping over the moon launch together and light the skies during “Balloon Glowdeos”.

On weekday mornings, pilots and crews test their competitive skills with precision flying events. Such challenges as Target Drops, Key Grabs and Cash Grabs test the maneuverability expertise of the pilots.

The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta took-off in 1972 when 13 balloons participated. Over the years the number of balloons and spectators has grown dramatically. Over 300 Albuquerque resident balloon pilots are joined by over 400 other pilots from around the country and world. The “Flight of Nations” where pilots carry their country’s flag in mass ascension is an International spectacle.

So mark your calendars for this nine-day Balloon Festival event during the first week of October each year. This is one of Albuquerque’s major events you don’t want to miss. Book your hotel reservations in Albuquerque now. Accommodations are hard to find during this period.

For more information about the Balloon Fiesta ands its schedule of events, visit the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta website. Also visit the Anderson Abruzzo International Balloon Museum for an enlightening insight into the science and history of ballooning.