Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Balloon Fiesta Park | October 7-15, 2017
It’s almost time for the annual illuminating glow of colourful balloons that soar over the Southwest skies!
Each fall, pilots, crews and spectators from all over the world come to the Albuquerque balloon festival, known as the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the world’s largest hot air ballooning event. For nine days during the first full week of October, hundreds of colorful balloons float above the city each morning as dawn breaks over the Sandia Mountains. It’s no wonder this visual feast is said to be the world’s most photographed event.
Albuquerque Balloon Festival Events
Mass ascensions | Hundreds of balloons lift off into the morning sky, and are held on all four weekend mornings and one day mid-week. Mass ascensions begin after “dawn patrol” carefully examines the morning’s weather conditions. When the dawn patrol gives the green light, balloons from all over the world rise together in a harmonious lift-off. The sight of 500 balloons in the sky is as breathtaking for first-time visitors as it continues to be for veteran Albuquerque hot air balloon festival attendees.
Balloon glow® | Balloon enthusiasts fill the launch field and walk among the tethered balloons of every color, shape and size. As the propane burners inflate the balloons against a dark sky, they seem to flicker like giant psychedelic light bulbs. Special shapes balloons come alive – where you can see dinosaurs, bumble bees, flowers, a stage coach and a cow jumping over the moon all launch together during their own mass ascensions, called “special shape rodeos.”
Rides | Balloon rides are offered all year long, providing an unparalleled chance to enjoy a bird’s eye view of magnificent New Mexico terrain. Albuquerque’s fabulous weather offers the perfect opportunity to take to the skies.
Walk | Spectators are allowed to walk amongst the balloons as they inflate on the launch field each morning. Visitors are welcome to ask questions and meet the pilots.
Albuquerque’s wide-open spaces, sunny skies, favourable wind currents, and 5,000-foot elevation make it a premiere ballooning destination.
Click here for the official Albuquerque International Ballon Fiesta website and here for the event schedule.
Photo by Chemistruck Photography
