Inside the Basket - Stacey Peterson, Balloon Fiesta First Time Guest

March 25, 2024

We welcomed hundreds of thousands of guests to Balloon Fiesta Park last year, some who were event veterans and others who were visiting us for the first time. It’s our hope that, whether new or returning, every guest has a magical visit.

In this month’s Inside the Basket, we get to hear from first-time Balloon Fiesta guest Stacey Peterson sharing more about her experience, the memories that she made with her godmother and favorite tips for others planning to attend the 52nd Balloon Fiesta.

1. Give a brief overview of yourself and how you came to attend the 51st Balloon Fiesta.

I’m a former flight attendant from Michigan with a love for adventure and travel! Each year I plan for that special and unique experience to create memories of a lifetime. A friend told me some amazing things about the International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. The timing was perfect!! I had already booked a month-long trip to Arizona, so that set my plans in motion and the Fiesta planning began!

2. What was your favorite part about attending Balloon Fiesta?

It’s really hard to name one favorite part because I experienced so many incredible moments at the Fiesta. If I had to choose just one, it would be the first morning we arrived at 4:30 am to see Dawn Patrol. I remember walking onto the dark field where the balloons were just beginning to light. As we made our way through the crowd, we arrived at what felt like the front row of something spectacular!! In the darkness, the hot air began to fill the balloons going on Dawn Patrol. I remember feeling this childlike excitement as the balloons began to fill and a tear rolled down my cheek. It’s really hard to describe the moment but it was beautiful and something I will never forget.

3. Who did you attend Balloon Fiesta with and what was it like sharing this experience with them?

I attended the Balloon Fiesta with my Godmother Jari. We both love doing new things plus we love a little adventure. When I mentioned my friend not being able to go, my godmother volunteered to go with me without hesitation. We were both going to be in Arizona at the same time, so we started planning our road trip to Albuquerque for the Balloon Fiesta. She was just as excited as I was, knowing this would be an epic adventure!! We drove from Surprise, Arizona and we were both so excited for what lay ahead.

4. Of the many balloons at Balloon Fiesta, which was your favorite?

It’s hard to choose just one balloon because they were all beautiful!! I’ve always loved unicorns from the time I was a child, so the Alicorn is at the top on my list of favorites! I lived in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan which is home to over 40 lighthouses. In my travels, I always make a point of visiting as many lighthouses as I can, so when I saw Bob the Lighthouse, I knew he would be one of my favorites. I was lucky enough to capture a really cool photo during Mass Ascension from the back of Bob the Lighthouse, he appears to be waving farewell to all his friends.

5. What tips do you have for first-time guests, planning to attend the 52nd Balloon Fiesta?

• First and foremost, take advantage of the Park & Ride! It’s a convenient and great way to get to the Fiesta early and you’re dropped off at the front gates. Towards the end of our visit, we saw some visitors experience issues with full parking lots, so I was happy we decided to do the Park & Ride.
• Arrive early, you don’t want to miss Dawn Patrol, especially if it’s your first time at the Fiesta.
• Be sure to get a breakfast burrito! It was chilly that first morning and a warm, yummy breakfast burrito was a perfect way to start the day!!
• Wear comfortable shoes and be sure to layer your clothes because the temperature throughout the day changes.
• Bring a flashlight. The field in the morning and at night get really dark, so a small flashlight was perfect! You can use your cellphone flashlight, but it will definitely wear down your battery quickly.
• Bring a camera and/or cellphone with extra batteries and charging cables. I took so many pictures with my iPhone, that it was completely drained at the end of each day. You don’t want to miss all those incredible photos!
• Bring your patience! The food, beverage, and souvenir lines can be very, very long so come prepared.
• We didn’t realize the Fiesta breaks between morning and afternoon sessions. It’s recommended you leave and return for the afternoon/evening sessions. That worked out really nice to go have a sit-down meal, we even had time for an afternoon nap.
• Bring a blanket or foldable chairs to relax and watch the balloons.
• Be sure to bring water, sunscreen and some snacks.
• Lastly, be prepared to have the time of your life!!!