Are you ready for the grand spectacle that is the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta? It's just over a month a month away, so now is the time to make plans and make sure to buy tickets. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is not just an event; it's a phenomenon that captures the essence of joy, freedom, and color. As the world's largest balloon festival, it draws pilots, spectators, and enthusiasts from all corners of the globe to Albuquerque, New Mexico, for an experience that is truly out of this world.

The fiesta's origins date back to 1972 when 13 balloons ascended from a shopping mall parking lot. Now, more than four decades later, it has grown into an international sensation, with hundreds of balloons painting the sky with their magnificent hues and intricate designs.

The 2024 edition of the fiesta, set to take place from October 5th to the 13th, is shaping up to be the most breathtaking yet. The theme for this year, "A Symphony of Shapes," celebrates the diversity and creativity of the balloons, which range from traditional orbs to whimsical special shapes that defy the imagination.

The festival's schedule is packed with events that cater to all tastes and ages. The Dawn Patrol, a group of balloons that take off before sunrise, tests the winds for the others. Their pre-dawn inflation and takeoff are a magical sight, with the glow of their burners lighting up the dark sky.

The Mass Ascension is a signature event where all participating balloons launch in two waves, creating a spectacle of mass flight that is unrivaled anywhere else in the world. The sky becomes a mosaic of colors and shapes, with the Sandia Mountains providing a stunning backdrop.

The Special Shape Rodeo gathers the most uniquely designed balloons. From animals and cartoon characters to fantastical creatures and iconic figures, these balloons are crowd favorites and offer a playful twist on the traditional balloon designs.

The Balloon Glows are evening events where balloons are tethered to the ground but illuminated from within, creating a breathtaking display of light and color. The Night Magic Glow is a particular highlight, with the balloons glowing in unison against the night sky.

The festival also features competitive flying events, where pilots demonstrate their skill and precision. Tasks such as the Key Grab and the Ring Toss challenge pilots to maneuver their balloons with exactitude, often with lucrative prizes at stake.

Beyond the balloons, the fiesta is a cultural celebration. The Music Fiesta brings together top musical acts for performances that add an auditory element to the visual feast. The Artisans at Balloon Fiesta Park showcase local and national artists, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to fine art.

For the adventurous, balloon rides offer the chance to participate in the magic of flight. Floating gently above the earth, riders can take in panoramic views of the Rio Grande Valley and the enchanting New Mexican landscape.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is more than an event; it's a bucket-list destination that offers memories to last a lifetime. It's a place where the spirit of adventure soars as high as the balloons themselves, and the joy of flight is shared by all who attend.

As the 2024 fiesta draws near, the excitement is palpable. With each year, the festival evolves, adding new events and features that continue to enchant visitors. Whether you're a seasoned balloonist or a first-time visitor, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is an event that promises wonder, excitement, and a sense of community that reaches skyward, just like the balloons that give it life.

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Every October, the skies of Albuquerque come alive with a vibrant display of over 500 balloons taking flight from Balloon Fiesta Park. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the largest hot-air balloon festival in the world, and it's an event you won't want to miss. As you wander through the festival, you'll be surrounded by the mesmerizing sight of hot air balloons gracefully ascending into the cool autumn air. It's an experience that will transport you to a dreamlike state.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a highly regarded event that draws visitors from around the globe. Taking place in the first week of October, it offers a sensory experience with the aroma of roasting chiles and the captivating sight of hot air balloons gracefully floating through the autumn sky. The Balloon Fiesta Park serves as the launch site for hundreds of balloons, creating a city-wide celebration that should not be overlooked.

One of the main attractions of the fiesta is the Dawn Patrol, which was introduced in 1978 by two California balloonists. They developed position lighting systems that allowed them to fly at night. The Dawn Patrol pilots take off before sunrise and continue flying until it is light enough to see landing sites. This is particularly appreciated by fellow balloonists as they can observe the balloons and gather early information about wind speeds and directions at different altitudes. On mass ascension days, around a dozen Dawn Patrol balloons perform the Dawn Patrol Show, a synchronized inflation and launch accompanied by music. This show has been a part of the Balloon Fiesta since 1996. The inflations for the Dawn Patrol begin at approximately 5:45 AM, weather permitting, with the actual launch taking place around 6:00 AM.

The balloon event will not only feature captivating balloons, but also a diverse range of talented performers, many of whom are local New Mexicans. These performers represent various styles and genres, adding to the magical experience.

See the full schedule of events!

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This is truly the most beautiful time of the year in New Mexico…magical, really. A breathtaking display of colorful, amazing hot air balloons majestically decorating the blue skies. This is a world renown event that beckons kids of all ages and all parts of the world to Fiesta Park for the 9-day event. Hundreds of balloons will take flight in all their glory and cruise through the desert sky.  

Did you know that the gentle winds of the Albuquerque area, between the lower altitude of the river valley and the higher altitude of the mountain range create the Albuquerque Box? It makes the gentle winds blow in a box pattern and the perfect place for ballooning in the world!

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, check into the Gondola Club- which is a VIP experience offering the best of the best. Prime views, private parking, a gourmet buffet and hosted bar, shuttle service, private restrooms, collectible pin, and Gondola souvenir gift.  You can also opt for the Chaser’s Club, this upgraded ticket offers its holder a grand experience with outdoor seating in the patio next to the Launch Field with hot food items, desserts, and refreshments. Enjoy a cocktail for purchase while you comfortably watch the beautiful balloon displays. There is even Glamping available! Yes you heard that correctly! Enjoy spectacular views from the Glamping tent village. Restroom and shower trailers are provided and you can walk to Launch Field.

While the balloons obviously take center stage, there will also be great entertainment! Starting on Thursday, entertainers include- Big K & Blue Train, Entourage Jazz, The Panhandlers, Mirage- A Santana Experience, Restless Road, Lainey Wilson, Cole Swindell, and Brandon Saiz!!

It is going to be a phenomenal festival!  For more information, ticket sales and more, click here. 

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October is almost here, and everyone in Albuquerque, as well as the rest of the word, knows what that means - The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta! The fiesta is scheduled to start on October 1st and run through the 9th.

This is a particularly special fiesta, as the 2020 event was canceled. But even better yet, this is the 50th anniversary of the festival! This will be a very special event indeed, bringing thousands of balloon lovers from around the world. It's also been said that this is the most photographed event in the world, and this year will definitely prove that point.

If you plan to go to this amazing event, here's what you need to know.

Tickets

Tickets for the Albuquerque Balloon Festival is $15 per person per session. Most days have a morning and evening session. If you leave the park in between, you will have to purchase another ticket. Some things include tickets like the Park & Ride and particular RV spots. Buy your tickets online here.

If you’re looking for a more exclusive experience, there are a few upgraded options:

• Chasers’ Club ($60 per session): Access to a special viewing area with guaranteed seating, buffet, private bathrooms, and a cash bar.
• Gondola Club ($125 per session): Everything the Chasers’ Club gets plus a parking pass, open bar, shuttle service, souvenir gift, and more.
• Concierge Program ($350 per session for 1-2 people): General admission ticket, premium parking pass, and a private golf cart and driver during your session. You also get a Balloon Fiesta gift.
• The Music Fiesta is additional as well ranging from $10 for general admission tickets to $499 for the ultimate experience.

Main Events

There's going to be so much to see over the 9 days of the festival. Here are a few of the major events that you can't miss.

• Dawn Patrol (daily) – Each morning, a few balloons take off before the sun rises to check the weather conditions to ensure it’s safe for the rest of the balloons to fly. This is the least impressive to watch, and because it’s dark, photography is challenging.
• Balloon Glows (various) – Balloons will burn their propane in sync with each other before when it’s still dark while still tethered to the ground. They have a Morning Glow, Twilight Twinkle Glow, and Night Magic Glow.
• Mass Ascension (weekends) – Hundreds of balloons will launch in two waves, filling the skies with hot air balloons.
• Competitions (various) – Throughout the week, pilots fly their balloons and compete in various challenges testing their skills. One of the most popular is America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race. This annual long-distance race starts at the
• Balloon Fiesta Parks and tests to see how far they can go without coming down. Often times they are in the sky for multiple days.
• Special Shape Rodeo (various) – One of the coolest things to see is all the crazy balloon shapes that they have. During these events, they focus on only these unique balloons, whether it’s flying or glows.

If you want all the juicy details of the festival, please visit balloonfiesta.com. Enjoy the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta 2022!

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Contact us today to help you buy or sell your next home in Albuquerque. Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Join us twice a week on our blog for more real estate advice and great reasons to buy a home in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Follow us on Facebook for the latest Albuquerque real estate updates.

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2021 Balloon Fiesta Live!

Oct 2 – 9
Balloon Fiesta Park
Albuquerque, NM

Balloon Fiesta is held in October due to the wind conditions known as the ‘Albuquerque Box’, which can take the balloons on a tour of the river valley, the surrounding mountains and bring them back to the 80-acre launch area in the even bigger Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Park.

The calendar includes a dawn patrol, when the crews lift off in the dark and come into view with the early sun; laser and firework shows; flight competitions; musical entertainment and the dramatic mass ascension when almost 600 balloons are launched over two hours. Though it is not cheap, event-approved rides can be organised. More than 860,000 people and 670 pilots are expected to attend the nine-day show.

Harvest Festival

Sat, Oct 2, 10 AM – Sun, Oct 3, 4 PM 
ABQ BioPark
903 10th St SW, Albuquerque, NM

The ABQ BioPark is excited to host the Harvest Festival for two fun-filled days at the Botanic Garden in October. Explore a variety of landscapes throughout the Garden, listen to live music, enjoy festival treats and local brews, and celebrate the beauty of the season.

Disney On Ice presents Let's Celebrate

Sat, Oct 9, 3 – 7 PM
Rio Rancho Events Center
3001 Civic Center Cir NE, Rio Rancho, NM

The celebration of the century comes alive in Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate! This monumental ice-skating spectacular skates into Albuquerque this Fall playing Rio Rancho Events Center for six fun-filled performances from October 8–10, 2021. After the pandemic pause, this tour will be the first Disney On Ice shows returning to New Mexico in over a year and half!

New Mexico United vs. Rio Grande Valley

Sat, Oct 9, 5 – 10 PM
Isotopes Park
1601 Avenida Cesar Chavez SE, Albuquerque, NM

The New Mexico United 2021 Season is here!

Tickets for regular season matches will be available on a limited basis, dependent upon county, state, and federal COVID-safe protocols, and best practices, and will be released a few matches at a time, to allow United to adjust to the latest COVID-safe protocols as they develop. Those tickets will be available in waves, with each wave capped to provide equitable access for everyone. In addition, tickets will be sold in pods of varying sizes to allow for proper social distancing.

For the most up-to-date ticketing information, please contact New Mexico United directly.

Contact us today to help you buy or sell your next home in Albuquerque. Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Join us twice a week on our blog for more real estate advice and great reasons to buy a home in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Follow us on Facebook for the latest Albuquerque real estate updates.

There's simply no other festival like it in the world. It's the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® and it's coming up next month on October 5-13. This beautiful time of the year is only made more amazing with the sight of hundreds of colorful balloons in the air. But this fiesta is not all just a bunch of hot air. There's so much going on during these 9 days to keep everyone from around the world in amazement.

Just the opening day on Saturday brings non-stop action and fun. Starting at the crack of dawn at 6am is the Dawn Patrol Show and the Krispy Kreme Morning Glow at 6:30am. The opening ceremonies at 6:45am kick off the breathtaking Mass Ascension where all of the balloons will be launched, filling the Albuquerque skies with stunning colors.

And while the balloons are aloft, there's plenty to do on the ground, with the AIBF Chainsaw Carving Exhibition & Auction, America's Challenge Gas Balloon Inflation, Team Fastrax Sky Divers, America's Challenge Gas Balloons Launch, and capping off with the AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show. And this is all just on the opening day!

Since this event is hosted by Canon, there will be a photo contest where you can show off your balloon photography prowess. And since half the fun of balloons is all the shapes they come in, the most popular event is the Special Shape Rodeo where all sorts of characters come to life in the sky.

In all, there will be 550 balloons with 650 pilots from around the world. Over 880,000 people will be there to witness this amazing spectacle.

You can get all the details at balloonfiesta.com. Don't miss out on this world-famous Albuquerque event!

Looking for the perfect home in Albuquerque? Our powerful home search feature will help you find the home of your dreams. And make sure to join us twice a week on our blog for more great reasons to buy a home in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Follow us on Facebook for the latest Albuquerque real estate updates.

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Whether you own a home in Albuquerque or plan to buy one soon, the good news is that Albuquerque is filled to the brim with exciting things to do.  Albuquerque is an outdoor lover’s dream come true.  It’s also home to a world famous art scene.  Get ready to have a good time. Here’s a list of some of the top things to do in Albuquerque.

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Coming up in October 6-14, 2018, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a wonder to behold. Imagine all the colors as hundreds of hot air balloons take flight in the Southwestern skies. Spectators and pilots from all over the world come together every year for this amazing event.  Watch he mass ascensions every morning, then the 'glowdeo' in the evening.  There’s live music and performers strolling through the crowds. Certainly the perfect event for the whole family to remember for years to come.

Explora Science Center and Children's Museum of Albuquerque

Explora is an innovative place for the whole family to learn together. Explora is part science center and part children's museum that offers hands-on activities in science, technology, and art for people of all ages. Explora is located in historic downtown Albuquerque and is a short walk to restaurants, shops, and the nearby park.

Balloon Rides

You don’t need to wait until the Balloon Fiesta to enjoy the wonders of balloon flight.  You can take a balloon ride in Albuquerque just about any time with these balloon ride services.

Petroglyph National Monument

One of the iconic images of the Southwest is prehistoric rock art, known as petroglyphs. You can explore the thousands of images that have been found on the West Mesa volcanic escarpment, located along a 17-mile canyon outside of Albuquerque.

Unser Racing Museum

If you love racing, or appreciate automotive history, this is the ideal experience for you and your family. The museum covers the early days of racing to the latest technology, including a racing and interactive kiosks for all ages to learn more about racing in a fun, educational environment.

Of course this just scratches the surface of all the ways you can enjoy yourself in Albuquerque.  Join us every week for more information about Albuquerque and real estate news.

And make sure to follow us on Facebook for up to date real estate news for Albuquerque and surrounding areas.

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Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

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