Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
New Mexico is the chili capitol of the world, and for two weeks in October, every year Albuquerque becomes the hot air balloon capitol of the world.
Hundreds of balloons from around the world in every color and shape imaginable ascend from the fairgrounds in Albuquerque and drift down the Rio Grande valley for as far as the eye can see.
MASS ASCENSION
In a matter of a few hours, up to 600 balloons inflate and take off down wind in the morning light. The balloon field is open to the public and walking around between the seemingly endless variety of balloons as they ascend is a magical experience. Keep moving and watch out for the unusual shapes taking flight.
MORNING GLOW
Early in the morning, before the sun has a chance to peak over the Sandia Mountains on the east side of town, a handful of brave balloonist take to the sky. The balloons light up like Chinese lanterns when the pilots ignite their burners, and the sky twinkles like a forest of fire flies. When the balloons are high enough, they are struck by the morning light from the rising sun and shine in the twilight sky. The balloons start early, so go to sleep early the night before. October temperatures in Albuquerque are cooler than most people think, so dress appropriately for being outdoors for hours in 40deg weather. An assortment of coffee and breakfast burrito stands are there to help though, so bundle up with a hot cocoa and burrito and enjoy the show. It helps to keep walking. Take a stroll and check out all the balloons getting ready for flight.
SPECIAL SHAPES
Typical hot air balloons are tear drop shaped, but most of the fun of the balloon fiesta is spotting all of the unique shapes. A crocodile with a backpack, a cowboy armadillo, and a goldfish sporting a monocle, cane, and top-hat are just a few of the incredibly creative shapes of balloons that you’ll see take to the skies. A few times throughout the week, the a number of these eccentric designs inflate (but usually don’t take off) during Special Shape Rodeos. Check the schedule for when these events occur.
OTHER EVENTS
Fast Trax Skydivers streak tails of colored smoke across the afternoon sky as they plummet from balloons. Balloon pilots compete to see who can harness the wind more precisely and drop sand bags on targets during the Competition Ballooning. A number of concerts, car shows, chain saw carving events, and various demonstrations take place throughout the festival as well.
