Inside the Basket - Erica Hahn, Balloon Fiesta Concessions & Executive Assistant

Erica Hahn oversees a variety of areas at Balloon Fiesta, including concessions and Artisans. This month’s Inside the Basket explores her role within the event, and some of her favorite tips.

1.Give a brief overview of your background and how you became involved with Balloon Fiesta.

I’m originally from Ohio and have been in Albuquerque for almost four years. Prior to working at Balloon Fiesta, I was a Closing Coordinator and Short Sale Coordinator for a real estate and title company in Michigan. I’ve been involved with ballooning nearly all my life, and when there was a position open at Balloon Fiesta, I had to try my hand at working for an event I grew up attending.

2. Please explain your role at Balloon Fiesta.

I started working at Balloon Fiesta in 2016 and I currently coordinate and oversee Concessions, Artisans, Main Street Entertainment, Balloon Discovery Center, and am the Assistant to the Executive Director.

3. What is your favorite part about your job and what is the hardest?

I really like the variety of things I do throughout the year, from the planning process through the event. The hardest thing about my job is probably trying to think three steps ahead and planning for the unknown!

4. What advice do you have for Balloon Fiesta guests beginning to plan for this year’s event?Do your research and plan ahead! While you’re at the park, remember that there are lots of other things to do besides the balloons.

5. What part of Balloon Fiesta do you look forward to most?

Taking time to stop and look around at all the smiling faces. Once I remember to do that, the stress and work that goes in to planning the event makes it all worth it.