Albuquerque’s biggest show on (and over) Earth
Albuquerque’s azure skies become a surreal sight in early October when dragons, cows, princesses and even Darth Vader and Yoda take flight during New Mexico’s annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
Sponsored by Canon this year, Where Dreams Take Flight is the world’s largest balloon festival and the world’s most photographed event. In the first week of October, more than 550 hot air balloons from 18 countries and 45 states take off every day.
An estimated 500,000 people will attend the early morning launches and evening balloon glow throughout the week.
Yoda from “Star Wars” wows crowds at the 2014 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. He, his friend Darth Vader and 548 other balloons – nearly 100 of which are special shape balloons – are returning to Albuquerque for the first week of October. — Photo courtesy of Steve Larese
New for 2015: Parabatix is a group of international freestyle paramotors (motorized paragliders) who race after morning balloon events and perform acrobatics over the balloon field.
Also new this year are morning and evening laser light shows, where laser art uses inflated balloons as screens in displays choreographed to the music.
All week long, balloons launch in waves starting at 5:30am. In the evening, tethered balloons create a forest of bright colors across the 78-acre lawn, followed by fireworks.
Balloon competitions put pilots’ skills to the test as they compete for prizes, such as trying to hit ground targets with beanbags.
Hundreds of vendors offer everything from breakfast burritos to collectible balloon pins.
On Saturday 10th October the Music Fiesta will be headlined by The Band Perry, with support acts Gloriana and Two Way Crossing.
Music begins at 1:15 p.m. and Music Fiesta attendees have access to the balloon glow and fireworks that follow at no additional charge. Tickets start at $8, with reserved seating at $50.
General parking fee is $10 per session and admission is $8 per morning and evening session. Children up to 12 years have free entry.
Park-and-ride buses avoid traffic and take visitors directly into the park for a total of $20. Free bike parking is available for those who prefer to cycle to this unique event.
Visitors should wear layered clothing as mornings can be chilly. But as soon as the sun rises above the Sandía mountains, it warms up quickly.
Bring cash, too, as some of the food and craft stalls don’t accept credit cards.
For a new way to experience the balloons, consider a guided tour kayak tour On the Rio Grande, see balloons floating along the river, avoid traffic, and get some exercise with the Routes Bicycle Rentals Balloon Fiesta Bike Tour.
After the balloons land, be sure to explore Albuquerque’s many unique attractions, including the Sandia Aerial Tramway, one of the longest in the world.
Or visit one of the best restaurants near the balloon festival area.
The 2015 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is scheduled for Saturday, October 3rd through Sunday, October 11th. For a full list of events see Balloon Fiesta website.