Soar the Skies at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Published by Megan Eaves, Writer
Country: United States 
The Experience
It was just after 5 a.m. when I forced myself out of bed, packed on three layers of clothes (to be peeled off later when the desert sun peaked) and sped down Interstate 25 toward the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. When we arrived, the sun was barely starting to peek over the tips of Sandia Peak, which cast a strange glow down the mountain's sheer facade.
All around us, the empty fabrics of hot air balloons lay flat and dormant on the ground awaiting the blazing heat of inflation and the start of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. The high desert air was cool and crisp, and my breath shot out of my mouth in a white puff as I shivered a little. A small wooden stand nearby beckoned me with promises of hot chocolate, and nearby, vendors were grilling eggs, pancakes and New Mexico chilies. Behind me, the loud "shwoooooosh" of hot air balloon fire igniters cut through the morning silence.
After downing a breakfast burrito crammed full of luscious pinto beans, heaps of cheese, bacon bits and gobs of spicy green chile sauce—I felt warmed from the inside out. The sun, still barely making an appearance, cast long bright rays across the mesas (elevated areas of land) when the first balloon took flight.
All around the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, half-inflated balloons were now brandishing colours, and festival-goers were able to get up close as they slowly lifted from the ground.
The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta began animating with life as the balloons breathed the inflated air and grew taller. Some were widening into traditional arcs as others splayed out into amazing shapes: cows, milk cartons, ladybugs and frogs with goofy grins. Nearby, Darth Vader was battling his half-inflated mask. All of the balloons were bobbing up and down in anticipation of their first flight of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta.
Walking amongst the expanding mass of balloons, I could inspect them closely, and at times I nearly walked inside them as they raised themselves off the ground. Blue, orange, green, black, yellow and bright red—every colour imaginable surrounded me in a rainbow of eerie shapes that bobbed and swayed in the early morning breeze. Balloon pilots raced around the sides of the balloons checking their baskets for the necessary equipment. They would pull on the fire trigger to send a surge of hot air inside the balloons. People looked on with admiring gazes and wide smiles, making small chat as they warmed their hands around cups of coffee. Photographers bent low over their tripods trying to capture the moments of inaugural lift during the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta.
Then, suddenly it seemed as if all the balloons were in the air above me, like they had planned their skyward maneuvers in sync. Dotting the sky in every direction as far as my eyes could take me, their brightly-patterned geometric designs contrasted with the now sunny blue New Mexico sky. The balloons, which had seemed so huge just moments before on the ground, were now tiny as they floated up and away. From the baskets, balloon pilots and their friends and families clustered in groups of four, waving, smiling and shouting to those of us left on the ground in awe of this amazing sight. I craned my neck, trying but failing to see them all as they littered the sky with tiny bits of colour.
All around us, the empty fabrics of hot air balloons lay flat and dormant on the ground awaiting the blazing heat of inflation and the start of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. The high desert air was cool and crisp, and my breath shot out of my mouth in a white puff as I shivered a little. A small wooden stand nearby beckoned me with promises of hot chocolate, and nearby, vendors were grilling eggs, pancakes and New Mexico chilies. Behind me, the loud "shwoooooosh" of hot air balloon fire igniters cut through the morning silence.
After downing a breakfast burrito crammed full of luscious pinto beans, heaps of cheese, bacon bits and gobs of spicy green chile sauce—I felt warmed from the inside out. The sun, still barely making an appearance, cast long bright rays across the mesas (elevated areas of land) when the first balloon took flight.
All around the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, half-inflated balloons were now brandishing colours, and festival-goers were able to get up close as they slowly lifted from the ground.
The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta began animating with life as the balloons breathed the inflated air and grew taller. Some were widening into traditional arcs as others splayed out into amazing shapes: cows, milk cartons, ladybugs and frogs with goofy grins. Nearby, Darth Vader was battling his half-inflated mask. All of the balloons were bobbing up and down in anticipation of their first flight of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta.
Walking amongst the expanding mass of balloons, I could inspect them closely, and at times I nearly walked inside them as they raised themselves off the ground. Blue, orange, green, black, yellow and bright red—every colour imaginable surrounded me in a rainbow of eerie shapes that bobbed and swayed in the early morning breeze. Balloon pilots raced around the sides of the balloons checking their baskets for the necessary equipment. They would pull on the fire trigger to send a surge of hot air inside the balloons. People looked on with admiring gazes and wide smiles, making small chat as they warmed their hands around cups of coffee. Photographers bent low over their tripods trying to capture the moments of inaugural lift during the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta.
Then, suddenly it seemed as if all the balloons were in the air above me, like they had planned their skyward maneuvers in sync. Dotting the sky in every direction as far as my eyes could take me, their brightly-patterned geometric designs contrasted with the now sunny blue New Mexico sky. The balloons, which had seemed so huge just moments before on the ground, were now tiny as they floated up and away. From the baskets, balloon pilots and their friends and families clustered in groups of four, waving, smiling and shouting to those of us left on the ground in awe of this amazing sight. I craned my neck, trying but failing to see them all as they littered the sky with tiny bits of colour.
When to Go to Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta occurs every October for nine days, though the specific dates vary each year. Late autumn is a spectacular time to visit New Mexico, when the high mountain air is crisp and dry and the leaves on the Cottonwood trees along the Rio Grande have changed from green to bright orange, red and yellow. The October sunsets glow pink against the Sandia Mountains and give the mountains the watermelon colour of their namesake. The vast array of colours dotting the sky during the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is probably one of the most breathtaking scenes you'll ever come across.
Beyond the spectacular array of balloons, the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta plays host to an amazing range of vendors, including lots of unique New Mexican fare (watch out for the spicy red and green chili sauces!), interesting balloon equipment and all-around great souvenirs. Each evening is rounded off with an exciting fireworks display!
Beyond the spectacular array of balloons, the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta plays host to an amazing range of vendors, including lots of unique New Mexican fare (watch out for the spicy red and green chili sauces!), interesting balloon equipment and all-around great souvenirs. Each evening is rounded off with an exciting fireworks display!
Odds n' Ends
The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta goes on all week, so it's possible to do other sightseeing and still get your fill of all the balloon activities. This is nice because Albuquerque is a soft, laid back city with lots to see and do, including Old Town shopping, hiking the West Mesa and taking the Peak Tram to the top of the Sandia Mountains!
There are several Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta events that you won't want to miss. Set your alarm clock early (at least on one morning) and get out to Balloon Fiesta Park by 7 a.m. for the compulsory Mass Ascension—when all the balloons inflate and fly up at the same time. You'll want to don a sweatshirt or hoodie and grab a cup of hot cocoa, as October mornings in Albuquerque are crisp and cool!
The other Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta event not to be missed is the nightly Balloon Glow—an evening affair where many of the balloons inflate but stay grounded, creating a luminous natural glow emanating from the fire inflators. Perhaps, the most beloved Balloon Fiesta event is the Special Shapes Rodeo, which takes place on only one day of the Festival. For this, balloons of unique and special shapes are the feature of the day, and you are likely to see Snoopy floating next to Darth Vader, while an immense cow hovers just nearby.
Luckily, tickets to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta have remained remarkably cheap over the years. Daily adult admission is a mere US$6, and group/packet discounts are offered. Parking costs US$10 per day. There are also park & ride options that offer cheaper parking and will shuttle you to and from the Balloon Fiesta grounds.
There are several Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta events that you won't want to miss. Set your alarm clock early (at least on one morning) and get out to Balloon Fiesta Park by 7 a.m. for the compulsory Mass Ascension—when all the balloons inflate and fly up at the same time. You'll want to don a sweatshirt or hoodie and grab a cup of hot cocoa, as October mornings in Albuquerque are crisp and cool!
The other Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta event not to be missed is the nightly Balloon Glow—an evening affair where many of the balloons inflate but stay grounded, creating a luminous natural glow emanating from the fire inflators. Perhaps, the most beloved Balloon Fiesta event is the Special Shapes Rodeo, which takes place on only one day of the Festival. For this, balloons of unique and special shapes are the feature of the day, and you are likely to see Snoopy floating next to Darth Vader, while an immense cow hovers just nearby.
Luckily, tickets to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta have remained remarkably cheap over the years. Daily adult admission is a mere US$6, and group/packet discounts are offered. Parking costs US$10 per day. There are also park & ride options that offer cheaper parking and will shuttle you to and from the Balloon Fiesta grounds.
Places to Eat
- El Pinto Restaurant
- We have come a long way since our family started the El Pinto Restaurant in 1962. Featuring traditional New Mexican recipes from our grandmother Josephina Chavez-Griggs, we are proud to serve award-winning New Mexican food recognized internationally for being the flavor of New Mexico. We started with a small New Mexican restaurant in the beautiful Cottonwoods in the North Valley and expanded as our customer base increased and the demand for great red and green chile cuisine reached beyond our New Mexico home.
- Kellys Brew Pub
- Welcome to Kelly’s Brew Pub, Albuquerque’s premier hotspot for food, entertainment and of course beer. With over 20 in-house brews to choose from, Kelly’s is sure to have a selection for you. Experience the history and atmosphere that makes Kelly’s one of New Mexico’s greatest stops on legendary Route 66.
- The Range Café
- Greetings from The Range Cafe....one of New Mexico's favorite restaurants. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week, The Range serves ordinary food, made extraordinarily well. New Mexico favorites such as blue corn enchiladas, burritos and award winning huevos rancheros are offered along side classic American favorites like Tom's Meatloaf and Chicken Fried Steak.
- Garduno's of Mexico
- We have lots of delicious options for hosting parties or events of any size, including spacious banquet facilities for large events, and off-site catering for more intimate parties at home. Let us handle all your party planning details. Our margarita bar is the hit of any party!
- Flying Star Cafe
- We are your all around café. We’re open early and stay open late for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. Jump start your day with a hit of caffeine or end it with a before bedtime treat. Fast food, this isn’t - we make fresh food when you order, just as you like it. Take food on the fly or hang out with magazines and free Wi-Fi. Either way, we’re you’re place.
- Il Vicino Wood Oven Pizza & Brewery
- Welcome to Il Vicino, contemporary Italian Trattoria - serving authentic, reasonably priced wood-oven Pizza, unique entrées, Salads, delicious Panini-style sandwiches and baked Lasagna. For over 14 years, our unique combination of award-winning food and drinks has made Il Vicino a favorite for both locals and visitors.
- Frontier Restaurant
- The Frontier Restaurant has happily served the Albuquerque area and the University of New Mexico community since 1971. The Frontier Restaurant continues to be a safe and clean environment for college students to spend hours studying or just relaxing with great Frontier food after long study sessions.
Recommended Places to Stay
- Hacienda Antigua Bed & Breakfast
- Walk through the massive carved gates of Hacienda Antigua and step back in time. The gentle courtyard with its big cottonwood and abundance of flowers is the heart of this 215 year old adobe hacienda. Relax in the shade of the portal or soak up the bright southwestern sun by the swimming pool and hot tub.
- Inn the Village
- Inn the Village - A Corrales Bed and Breakfast offers an intimate stay and friendly environment with southwestern flair. Our bed and breakfast is luxurious, but not stuffy. We want you to experience a relaxed and comfortable visit. We believe staying at a bed and breakfast should be a better experience than lodging at a chain hotel.
- Inn at Rio Rancho
- Lush landscaping, a heated outdoor swimming pool with hot tub, a picturesque gazebo, and memories that are sure to last await you and your family in our serene 2-acre courtyard. Come discover Rio Rancho's hidden garden.
- Nativo Lodge
- Nativo Lodge is a culturally distinct Albuquerque hotel that awakens the imaginative spirit of the traveler searching for a unique hotel experience. This hotel combines rich and vibrant Native American cultural aspects with contemporary Albuquerque city elements. History, art, electronics, vibrant colors and neon lighting are combined to provide guests with a dramatic experience.
- The Route 66 Hostel
- The Route 66 Hostel, in Albuquerque, New Mexico provides budget accommodations for travelers and students. Located on historic Route 66, between the lively downtown district and the Old Town spanish plaza, it makes visiting the city a breeze. The University of New Mexico is just a few miles from the hostel. You can walk to the bus and train station. Come explore Albuquerque!
- Sandia Resort & Casino
- Sandia Resort and Casino reflects the rich pueblo heritage of the Southwest while combining the relaxing qualities of a resort with the excitement of a Las Vegas style casino. The closest hotel to Balloon Fiesta Park.
Additional Places to Stay Nearby
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Albuquerque, New Mexico Hotel's Location is Ideal Only minutes from the Balloon Fiesta Park, where the exciting International Balloon Fiesta is held each year, our ... 1 miles away
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The Ramada Limited Albuquerque serves the Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and Bernalillo areas from its location at I-25 and Alameda. The hotel features easy on-off access ... 1 miles away
$51 USD+
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More Experiences Nearby
- Uncover Ancient Cliff Dwellings at Bandelier National Monument
- It was late in the day when we jumped in our car and headed out from Santa Fe, New Mexico for an afternoon hike at Bandelier National Monument. Steeped in history, this ancient Native American archaeological site is home to cave dwellings and the ruins of several prehistoric villages of the Pueblo People. With endless and interesting wildlife, and one of the state's most scenic canyons, Bandelier National Monument is a primitive paradise. Arriving at Bandelier National Monument, the desert sun cast long shadows along the adobe visitor centre as we made our way inside, collected a trail map and ...43 miles away.
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Elsewhere on the Web
- Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
- Official website of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Includes annual schedule of events, tourist guide, photo gallery and more.
- Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
- The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®, the world’s largest hot air balloon festival, takes place each October, when you’ll see more than 700 balloons in the sky at a time. This magical hot air balloon festival is considered to be the most photographed event in the world, drawing a huge international crowd of balloonists and spectators.
- Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
- The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a world-renowned attraction and destination for kids of all ages. For more than three decades, the first week in October brings the smell of roasting chiles and the beautiful, magical moving picture show of hot air balloons sailing silently through the crisp fall air.
Media References
- Balloon fest in NM Oct. 6-14 - Yahoo! News (newspaper)
- The Heart of America - Put 'em up - The Independent (newspaper)
- High over Albuquerque - The Vancouver Sun (newspaper)
- Hot air ballooning in New Mexico - The Houston Chronicle (newspaper)
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