Fall in LOVE with the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Entering the launching field from the South

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a world-renowned event attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors every year from all over the world. Held at the beginning of October, in Albuquerque New Mexico, this nine-day event is the largest hot air balloon festival in the world, with over 500 hot air balloons taking to the skies. We were fortunate enough to be able to attend the 50th Anniversary in 2022 and let me tell you, it was absolutely breathtaking! If you’re planning to attend this year’s festivities, here’s a joyful guide to the ABQ Balloon Fiesta.

History & Highlights: A Look into the World’s Largest Hot Air Balloon Festival

The ABQ Balloon Fiesta is a celebration of the history, science, and art of ballooning. The festival started in 1972 with just 13 balloons, and it has grown to become the largest hot air balloon festival in the world. The festival features a variety of events, including balloon races, special shape balloons, balloon glows, fireworks, and live music. The most famous event is the Mass Ascension, where hundreds of balloons take off at the same time, creating a colorful and awe-inspiring spectacle.

Here you can pay to go up into the air in a basket!

The Balloon Fiesta also offers visitors the opportunity to experience ballooning themselves. You can book a hot air balloon ride and take in the stunning views of the Sandia Mountains and the Rio Grande Valley from above. The festival also hosts a balloon museum, where you can learn about the history of ballooning and see the different types of balloons and equipment used throughout the years. We did not have the pleasure of going up in a balloon, mainly because I am deathly afraid of heights and would never survive a trip like that.

Tips & Tricks: How to Make the Most of Your ABQ Balloon Fiesta Experience

To make the most of your ABQ Balloon Fiesta experience, here are some tips and tricks:

Arrive early: The festival is incredibly popular, so arriving early is essential to secure a good viewing spot for the Mass Ascension and other events.
Dress for the weather: Early mornings can be chilly, so make sure to dress in layers. Comfortable shoes are also a must as there is a lot of walking involved.
Plan your schedule: The festival has a packed schedule, so make sure to plan which events you want to attend in advance. There are morning sessions and nightly sessions that require separate admission tickets. Know what day and what session you want to see and plan accordingly.
Stay hydrated: The high altitude and dry climate can be dehydrating, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Also wear sunscreen and sunglasses because you will be looking up in the sky a lot!
If you want to avoid traffic altogether, plan on staying in your own RV on the fiesta grounds. There are many different lots to chose from, like full hook-up sites to rally style boon docking. We stayed in the South Lot which was fun because the balloons flew right over our rig and landed in an adjacent field. Prices vary GREATLY, and tickets get sold out months in advance so check the website for info.
Bring lots of money if you like shopping! There are dozens of vendors selling memorabilia, as well as the official fiesta tents, and an array of yummy food.
Although dogs are allowed in the RV lots they are not allowed in the fiesta grounds. We found this out the hard way and was really disappointed we couldn’t bring our dog in with us.
Balloon pilots and the workers helping them carry balloon cards that are similar to baseball cards. Just ask for one, and they are happy to share their cards with you. Kids love this part and run around trying to collect the most.

Conclusion: Soar High with Memories of the ABQ Balloon Fiesta

Attending the ABQ Balloon Fiesta is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will never forget. From the colorful balloons filling the sky to the live music and delicious food, there is something for everyone at this festival. Whether you want to get involved helping the balloon teams catch their balloons, or just want to watch from afar, you are sure to have an amazing time. On clear nights you can also enjoy nightly fireworks and spectacular balloon glows. There’s something for everyone at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta! So, pack your bags, don’t forget your camera, and get ready to soar high with memories of the ABQ Balloon Fiesta.