Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque is often referred to as the balloon capital of the world. The climate here is ideal for flying. And the views are fascinating – the valley of the Rio Grande River, the picturesque Sandia Mountain Range and the northern part of the Chihuahua Desert with its fabulous scenery. Every year since 1972, this is the city where the world’s largest themed festival, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, takes place. It lasts for 9 days and attracts a huge number of spectators and participants. Its most ambitious event – the simultaneous launching of hundreds of balloons into the sky. There can be up to 500 balloons – both classic and the most incredible shapes, sizes and colors.

The Balloon Fiesta Park is over two hundred acres of land with colorful balloons and a fairgrounds where you can buy anything from traditional New Mexico cuisine to a variety of souvenirs and festival paraphernalia!

One of the most famous and large-scale balloon festivals takes place in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It is a world famous event that is popular with people of all ages. Every year, in October, the sky above the city resembles a fairy tale picture – hundreds of huge balloons slowly float across it.

The Albuquerque Balloon Festival is now in its prime. It has gone from a formative stage when no more than 13 balloons flew into the sky to an area the size of 54 soccer fields, the last time 250 pilots from around the world and even New Zealand participated in the festival.

There are no stands or fences of any kind in the area, the participating teams and festival guests are all together and are part of the same whole – the Albuquerque International Balloon Festival. This is the only festival where guests are allowed to walk freely between balloons and anywhere else they want. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is now considered one of the largest air shows in America.

You can see various balloon competitions and the most original balloon shows, watch amazing evening shows with illuminated balloons, take to the skies in a balloon and view the surrounding area.

Every morning at 5:45, the festival will open with Dawn Patrol. The show has been running for 30 years. In 1978, an aeronaut from California developed a system that allows you to fly a hot air balloon at night. Since then, this “matinee” appeared – balloonists ascend into the night sky as high as the light allows you to see the landing site.

Balloon FestivalThe entrance to the park for children under 12 years old is free. However, adult tickets are inexpensive, too – $6. Parking is $10.