Inside the Basket - Paula Craner, Balloon Fiesta Navigator

November 12, 2020

Paula Craner is a Balloon Fiesta Navigator that helps answer guest questions at the Balloon Fiesta front desk.

In this month’s Inside the Basket, Paula shares insight to frequently asked questions and how she became involved with Balloon Fiesta.

1. Give a brief overview of your Balloon Fiesta role

I welcome people to the Balloon Fiesta office, help them with any questions and help with directions. I also answer the phone with questions about RV availability, all tickets information on parking, Park & Ride, gate entry and the Gondola Club.

2. How did you become involved with Balloon Fiesta?

In 2012 my sisters and I came to Balloon Fiesta as guests. At that time I fell in love with the balloons and Albuquerque and decided I would retire here. I called what I thought was the Balloon Museum to volunteer , but got the Balloon Fiesta Office instead and became a volunteer at the front desk.

3. What is your favorite part about being involved at the front desk?

I enjoy talking to people from all parts of the country and helping people enjoy Balloon Fiesta as much as I do.

4. What two questions do guests most frequently ask and what are the answers to those questions?

The first question I get is: How close can I get to the balloons? The answer is: Right next to the basket. You may even take a picture and talk with the pilot or crew members.

The second question we receive is: Do the balloons fly at night? The answer to this is: Sorry No, because of safety concerns and difficulty finding a safe place to land. But we do have Dawn patrol each morning, where a small number of balloons will takeoff just at the break of dawn.

5. What advice do you have for first-time Balloon Fiesta guests?

I would advise guests to wear comfortable shoes and make sure your camera or cell phone is fully charged for all of the pictures you will be taking.