News Release, March 2, 2021, Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Celebrates 49th Event “Time Flies” Launches October 2-10, 2021

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Celebrates 49^th Event

“Time Flies” Launches October 2-10, 2021

Albuquerque, NM -The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® presented by Canon is set to launch from Balloon Fiesta Park, October 2-10, 2021. The 49th event, themed “Time Flies,” will feature more than 600 hot air balloons, of which 100 are anticipated to be special shaped balloons. Pilots from all over the world have been invited to fly in the popular international event.

Event organizers are eager to welcome guests back to Balloon Fiesta Park in October, after having to postpone 2020’s event due to COVID-19. Last year was the only year the event has not been held since it began in 1972. “We are very excited to celebrate this year’s event with our pilots, guests, volunteers, sponsors and concessionaires. We are focused on creating a safe environment for all to comfortably enjoy 2021’s festivities,” said Sam Parks, Balloon Fiesta director of operations. More details on Balloon Fiesta’s public health plan, including COVID-19-safe practices will be released this summer.

The Balloon Fiesta’s five signature morning mass ascensions launch both weekends (October 2-3, 9-10) and mid-week (October 6). Other favorite events include the America’s Challenge Gas Race, Balloon Glows, Special Shape Rodeo and AfterGlow Fireworks Shows. A complete schedule for the nine-day event can be found here.

The first day of flying is scheduled for Saturday, October 2. The Dawn Patrol Show, launching before sunrise, will take to the skies followed by a dawn launch of more than 600 hot air balloons. Balloon pilots will launch in various waves in search of the famous Albuquerque Box (a wind pattern unique to Balloon Fiesta Park providing pilots the chance to take off and land from the same location).

The Balloon Fiesta flying competition will begin on Monday, October 4, and will continue through Friday. On Wednesday, October 6, the Flight of the Nations will get the mid-week mass ascension started, showcasing all countries represented at Balloon Fiesta. In addition to flying events, Thursday and Friday will feature special shape balloons launching each morning and glowing in the evening. In all, the event has five balloon glows scheduled this year.

Additional guest opportunities:

RV Spots: 2020 reservations have been rolled over and the waitlist is being processed. 2021 RV updates will be posted, here.

Gondola Club: One of the most picturesque locations at Balloon Fiesta Park, The Gondola Club is a private area complete with patio and outdoor seating, wonderful food and an amazing view. For more information, guests can visit the Balloon Fiesta website.

Chasers’ Club: Chasers’ Club is a unique experience in a private area that includes delicious food, local entertainment and indoor restrooms. Guests interested in this experience should visit Balloon Fiesta’s website.

About the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta presented by Canon is an annual festival of hot air balloons that takes place every October in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. It is the largest gathering of balloons and balloonists in the world. For details on events, schedule, entertainment and photographs visit our website www.balloonfiesta.comand follow us on Twitter @BalloonFiesta and Facebook.

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