Courtesy photo: Special shapes fly during the nine-day event. The Special Shape Rodeo is a favorite, scheduled to occur Thursday, October 10 and Friday, October 11. Photo credit: Tom Garrity
The event’s 52nd year launches this October
By Tom Garrity
When it comes to family travel, finding a destination that captivates both young and old can be a challenge. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, held annually in Albuquerque, is one such destination that promises a blend of excitement, education, and entertainment, making it an ideal choice for a memorable family getaway.
The 52nd event is scheduled to launch October 5 and run through October 13. Featuring more than 500 hot air balloons flown by pilots from around the world, Balloon Fiesta is renowned for its stunning launches and displays of hot air balloons.
Every October, the sky above Albuquerque transforms into a canvas of vivid colors as hundreds of balloons take flight. The sheer scale and beauty of the event are awe-inspiring—especially for children, who marvel at the sight of these giants floating gracefully against the backdrop of the blue New Mexico sky. The event’s signature mass ascensions and themed balloon displays—ranging from whimsical shapes to intricate designs—create a feast for the eyes that captivates all ages.
The morning events feature hot air balloons launching in mass ascensions. The evening events provide hot air balloons in static display. All events are dependent upon good flying weather. Check the Balloon Fiesta’s social media channels (Facebook and Twitter) to find insight on the day’s flying events. You can also sign up to receive text message alerts. (Visit balloonfiesta.com and look for the link at the bottom of the page.)
Courtesy photo: Balloon Fiesta is a magical place to watch hot air balloons lift to life with the help of a lot of hot air. Photo credit: Tom Garrity.
For more than 30 years, I’ve had a front row seat to watch the event grow, contract and then right size—many of those years as its spokesperson. Guests travel from around the world to watch balloons launch in this geographically unique part of Albuquerque. Here, over the 360-acre Balloon Fiesta Park, the weather converges to create the Albuquerque Box. The Box allows pilots to take off and land from Balloon Fiesta Park. The pilots like it and the guests love it, as it allows balloons to keep flying, time and time again, over the park.
So what do you need to know about bringing your family to the event?
Balloonfiesta.com is the hub for planning a trip. On the website you will find information about tickets, parking, park and ride, and bike valet. Children 12 and under are free. Also, New Mexico families have an extra treat this year: Monday, October 7 is New Mexico Day at Balloon Fiesta. Residents can show proof of residency and get in for free.
Driving to the park is the same for all of the 14 sessions that launch from Balloon Fiesta Park over the nine-day event. The website also has information on where the ride share programs will drop you off and pick you up from Balloon Fiesta. The Fiesta Express park and ride is a worry-free way to get to Balloon Fiesta Park. Make a reservation for park and ride based on the time and location that works best for your family. It really is the easiest way to access Balloon Fiesta.
If your family enjoys riding bikes, consider parking in the Journal center area of Albuquerque and pedaling up the North Diversion Channel to Balloon Fiesta Park. The bike path will cross over the channel and lead to the free bike valet area (located north of the Balloon Museum). You will still need to pay admission to get into Balloon Fiesta.
The opportunity to fly in a hot air balloon during the Balloon Fiesta provides unique views. Rainbow Ryders is the official ride vendor. You can learn more about their availability and pricing by visiting their website, Rainbowryders.com. Book early, months before the event. If there are no openings, ask to be put on a waiting list.
Walking into Balloon Fiesta Park, families should keep in mind that there will be security at all of the public gates. Here is some information about what is allowed to go through the metal detectors at the public gates and how to proceed: One backpack/bag per person, and clear bags will expedite the process. Blankets or bulky clothing should be carried over the shoulder to be screened more quickly. Folding chairs are allowed, but will have to be removed from the carrying case for inspection. You can also bring food of any kind for personal consumption (resale is prohibited). More information about what isn’t allowed is listed on the website.
For the first Saturday, planning to arrive at Balloon Fiesta Park by 5 a.m. (at the latest) is very reasonable. Opening day traffic is always a challenge. After that, being on the field by 6 a.m. for morning events and 5 p.m. for afternoon events will position your family for success.
Courtesy photo: Balloon glows are when hot air balloons are in static display during the dark hours of the day, and the special shapes make balloon glows special. There are five glows occurring during this year’s event. Photo credit: Tom Garrity.
Dress in layers, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Morning temperatures can hover between 40 to 50 degrees. Once the sun peeks over the Sandia Mountains and blankets Balloon Fiesta Park, temperatures will raise quickly to 70–80 degrees for afternoon highs.
Families should also plan to visit the Balloon Discovery Center at the north end of Balloon Fiesta Park. It is a great place to learn about hot air ballooning, the science of flight, and the importance of weather.
If you choose to go to the balloon glows (a favorite event for my daughters), encourage your children to ask hot air balloon pilots for a trading card. All of the pilots are provided trading cards and they are fun to collect and trade. They have them during the mass ascensions, but the crews are often focused on preparing their aircraft for flight. Evening events are a lot more laidback for this kind of activity.
Other events happening during the Balloon Fiesta include drone shows, parachute teams, evening fireworks, and a lot of traveling entertainment along main street. The main stage, located on the east side of the field in the middle of the concessions, has local bands playing after each of the morning and evening sessions.
Courtesy photo: Watching the morning mass ascensions from the south end of the park typically provides one of the best views of the 500+ mass launches. Photo credit: Tom Garrity.
Perhaps the most important thing for parents to do is to take a picture of your children the morning of Balloon Fiesta. Sometimes parents and children get separated. Showing event staff, launch directors, or uniformed first responders a picture of your lost child or parent is very helpful. Reunions will take place at the public safety center, the two-story building located behind the Main Stage.
To make the most of your Balloon Fiesta experience, a bit of planning can go a long way. Arrive early to secure good viewing spots and avoid the busiest crowds. Additionally, staying hydrated and having snacks on hand will keep everyone energized and happy.
Tom Garrity is the spokesperson for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. His public relations firm, the Garrity Group, coordinates the event’s social media channels on Facebook, Instagram,TikTok, and Twitter. His first visit to Balloon Fiesta was in 1991 as a reporter/producer with KOAT-TV. He started coordinating the events media relations effort in 1994.
