Hall of Fame Bios

The Inductees 1983-1999
...
Sid Cutter, 1983


Sid Cutter is recognized and honored as the father of hot air ballooning in Albuquerque. After making a free flight over the City, Sid later went on to host the first three balloon
“fiestas” in Albuquerque before working with Mayor Harry Kinney to found the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Sid was also a founder and charter member of the Albuquerque
Aerostat Ascension Association (AAAA... More

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Heritage Honorees

In 2005 the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Heritage Committee established the Heritage Pin, a limited-edition commemorative pin honoring pioneers in ballooning and the Balloon
Fiesta in particular. The Heritage Pin is awarded yearly in recognition of those who have perpetuated the legacy they've helped create.


 





The Honorees
...
Charlotte Kinney obtained her balloon pilot license in 1977, started... More

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Hall of Fame Bios 2000

The Inductees 2000-present
...
Linda Rutherford 2001


On a list of early woman balloonists in Albuquerque, Linda Rutherford’s name would be near the top.  Linda was part of the “Class of ’73,” which included some of
the earliest and most prominent female balloon pilots in Albuquerque.  She finished in the top ten in the National Hot Air Balloon Championships in 1975 and flew as a commercial pilot
for Budwiser and other... More

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Sky Box

FIESTA SKY BOX
...
Fiesta Sky Box offers groups an all-inclusive package with specially outfitted shipping containers located at a prime location on the launch field. Upper deck seating will put you above the
crowd with an unprecedented view of balloons, fireworks, and the drone show. The grassy patio area will have a relaxed vibe where you can enjoy food, drinks, and the largest hot air balloon
display in the world.


AMENITIES:


Access... More

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FAQs

.../> ...

...
What are the dates of future Balloon Fiestas?
...
2023 October 7-15

2024 October 5-13

2025 October 4-12

2026 October 3-11
...
What is the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta?
...
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a world-renowned attraction and destination for kids of all ages. For more than four decades, the first week in October brings the smell of
More

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FAQs: Gondola Club

...Club Packets for purchases made after September 18, 2023.  Below are ways to get your Gondola Club Packet after September 18th:  


Pick-up your packet at the Balloon Fiesta office (4401 Alameda Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113) Monday - Friday from 8am to 5pm. During the Balloon Fiesta October 7-15 from 8am-5pm. 

Use a courier service.  Please note, we cannot guarantee service by independent businesses.  If you opt to hire a... More

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Sky Box Menus

Sky Box Menus


BREAKFAST GRAZING BOXES


Each Box to include the following items: 


House-made breakfast pastries 


House-made banana bread 


Mini green chile cheddar cheese biscuit 


Individual fruit cups selection of fruits & berries 


Individual berry yogurts & granola parfaits 


Savory breakfast turnovers with applewood... More

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Purchase Tickets

...are nonrefundable.

Safety of all of our Balloon Fiesta guests, including pilots and crews, will always come first regarding making decisions whether the balloons inflate. While October is generally ideal for
ballooning in Albuquerque, less than ideal weather at Balloon Fiesta Park or in the vicinity, can sometimes prevent the balloons from inflating. If the decision to not allow the balloons to
inflate is made, Balloon Fiesta will rain-check that session. You are... More

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AIBF Facebook Terms of Service

Terms of Service for Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta's Facebook page


Welcome to the official Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Facebook page! This community was set up for friends to share stories and photos and ask questions about
the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, an annual festival of hot air balloons that takes place every October in Albuquerque, New Mexico. We welcome your feedback and encourage you to
share your... More

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FAQs: Music Fiesta

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® is excited to bring back Music Fiesta™ for another successful year!
...
The balloons have and always will be the shining stars at Balloon Fiesta. However, over the years we’ve welcomed some amazing musical artists who have
entertained our guests when the balloons are off the field. We’ve had the honor of hosting musical guests such as 3 Dog Night, Old Dominion, Michael Ray, the Marshall Tucker Band,More

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VolunteeringOPS

...event.  


Navigators are expected to assist with the setup of tents for incoming guests, guest check-in, providing directions to the launch field, answering guest questions about the event or things to
do in Albuquerque, covering the Camp guy for a break daily, keeping the camp tidy daily, and help guests pack up their camp kit upon check-out.


We need enthusiastic Navigators, with excellent customer service skills, who are team players and... More

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Media

...that the Balloon Fiesta has filled Albuquerque's crystal blue skies. The Balloon Fiesta is the premier international ballooning event,
powered by the typically perfect October climate and a phenomenon called the "Albuquerque Box," (a combination of weather patterns and geographic landscape, the box allows balloonists to
control and even retrace their adventure) that is great for spectators and pilots as they can possibly take off and land from the same... More

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Artisans

Artisans at Balloon Fiesta® is the only arts and crafts show located on-site during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. With around 30 artisans featured,
there is a little something for everyone, so be sure to plan your stroll through the artisan tent to take home a wonderful handcrafted souvenir to remember your trip. 


 


Admission to the Artisans at Balloon Fiesta tent is free... More

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Americas Challenge 2019 Teams

...in the Gordon Bennett the “best expression in balloon flying.

Benoit Pelard told us in 2017, after the America’s Challenge, that he hoped his good friend, the great champion Vincent Leys, would come to Albuquerque to compete in the America’s
Challenge. We are pleased he decided to do so.


Full Team Bio here
...
 USA  Team 3





More

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Special Shape Rodeo

The Special Shape Rodeo started in 1989 and now has become the most popular event at the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®. Since the Balloon Fiesta started the Special
Shape Rodeo in 1989, many events around the world have now added some kind of special shape event to their program.
...
The first Special Shape Rodeo balloons launched on Thursday and Friday afternoons and were lucky enough to fly both days. This event was such a success that it created... More

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Donate

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, Inc.


a 501(c)(3) corporation


Balloon Fiesta is produced by Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Inc., a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation. Incorporated in 1976, the mission statement of the Albuquerque
International Balloon Fiesta is...


"To conduct the world's premier ballooning event while renewing friendships and promoting... More

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Web Information

...it from our reciprocal web links list.



Please send all reciprocal link requests to


Copyrights


Information appearing on this website is copyrighted by Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, Inc., respective advertisers and/or content providers. See Permission paragraph for
authorization to reprint details.


Trademarks


Trademarks are often... More

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International Pilots

...approved Special Flight Authorization (SFA).


SFA Applicant Info (Download PDF)


SFA for Foreign Civil Aircraft Chapter 7 (Download PDF)


Applicants are instructed to contact the Albuquerque Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) should there be any questions:


ABQ FSDO

7-ASW-ABQ-FSDO@faa.gov
(505) 764-1200


US Customs Brokerage, Shipping and Warehouse Information:
More

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Balloon Fiesta Live! Archives

...the entire playlist.
...
2020


Balloon Fiesta Live! Siesta Edition Wrapped!





The crew for Balloon Fiesta Live! Siesta Edition. Thanks, Studio 519!


The 2020 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta may have been postponed until 2021, but that didn't stop the Balloon Fiesta Live! crew.


Glen Moyer and Art Lloyd Jr, returned this year for Balloon Fiesta Live! Siesta Edition. Still... More

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FAQs: Americas Challenge

...of two distance races for gas balloons in the world.  The other is the Coupe Aéronatique Gordon Bennett, the world’s oldest air
race, founded in 1906.  The America’s Challenge was founded by the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in 1995 to provide a consistent American venue for gas ballooning. 
The results of the America's Challenge event are used as a qualifer for US teams to enter the Gordon Bennett.
... More

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Americas Challenge 2021 Teams

USA  Team 1





Pilot: Barbara Fricke Balloon: Foxtrot Charlie Co-Pilot: Peter Cuneo


Fricke and Cuneo, from Albuquerque, are flying in their 21st America’s Challenge and are the only four-time-winning America’s Challenge team (2001, 2010, 2013, 2016). Only one
pilot –the late Richard Abruzzo – has more individual America’s Challenge wins to... More

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Travel Help

Order your free Official Visitors Guide or call 800.284.2282 to find out what else there is to see and do in Albuquerque during your trip.
...
Transportation Options


Albuquerque International Sunport: (505) 244-7700 or www.cabq.gov/airport


Alvarado Transportation Center: The Alvarado Transportation Center serves ABQRide, Amtrak, Greyhound Lines and the New Mexico Rail Runner Express commuter rail line.

More

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Donation Request

At the core of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (AIBF) is a desire to give back to the community that has contributed to our success.


Each year, AIBF allocates a budget to support community activities through contributions in the form of tickets or merchandise. However, requests have become so numerous that they exceed our
financial and logistical capabilities. In order to fairly distribute our support to as many organizations as possible, we ask that... More

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Concessions Artisans Application

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® offers Concessionaires and Artisans the unique opportunity to sell to a captive, on-site audience of hundreds of thousands of
people. Our guests are typically upscale consumers, and we strive to select the highest quality Concessions and Artisans to provide them with the level of goods and services
they expect.


With over one-third of a mile of Concession spaces and an on-site juried Artisans at... More

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Pilot Crew Videos

...channel, if you have difficulties viewing from the website. 
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


         


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

...
Connect with Us





         


Balloon Fiesta event tickets powered by Elevate®. Festival ticketing... More

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Photo Contest 2017

...Judges


Paul D deBerjeois - Paul D deBerjeois is recognized as one of the world's leading balloon photographers. He served as an official photographer for the
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta for seven years. He is the staff photographer for the Balloon Federation of America and he photographs many of the most scenic balloon rallies
and events across the USA. Paul has been a full... More

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Photo Contest 2011

Congratulations to the winners of the 2011 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Photo Contest!
...
Click each thumbnail to see a greater detail photo. See the photo contest rules here
...
Grand Prize Winner


Ben Polonowski
...
Albuquerque Aloft Winners
...
Dawn Patrol Winners
...
Mass Ascension Winners
...
Balloon Glow WinnersMore

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Coins

...ultrices, quam ut, arcu id velit a quis montes auctor, non felis vehicula, a elementum curabitur.
...



HISTORY OF GOLD AND SILVER ALBUQUERQUE BALLOON FIESTA COINS


1981 - First Silver Coin - for 10th Anniversary

More

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FAQs: Pilots

...Application will be available starting on March 4, 2024.


Please visit the PILOT APPLICATION page for more details!


 
...
Attention all Balloonists...


While flying in Albuquerque or Rio Rancho anytime of the year, please be aware of the prohibited and sensitive zones, different classifications of airspace, aircraft frequencies needed for
tower communication and the entry points to our local Pueblos and... More

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Competition

...Fiesta Park.

Beverages, dessert and catered food provided by Little Anita's. 

The opportunity to enjoy a cocktail while you enjoy watching hundreds of balloons decorating the Albuquerque sky.



General Information


Hours of Operation: Morning Sessions: 5:30am to 10:00 am, Evening Sessions: 5:00pm to 9:00pm. (food service ends 30 minutes prior to the close of each... More

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Ambassadors

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta announces the  AIBF Ambassador Program. Balloon Fiesta will provide your group, school, organization or event with a Balloon Fiesta
aficionado to talk about any of the many facets of this event and its fascinating history and detail.
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


         


 



LATEST... More

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Prayer

...
May you fly so high and so well that God

joins you in laughter and sets you gently

back into the loving arms of Mother Earth.


See you at the next Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®!
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


         


 



LATEST NEWS

More

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Crew Registration

Crew Registration


If you are interested in joining a chase crew for the 2024 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, please complete the application July 15, 2024 through September 2, 2024.   


Chase Crew Registration 


 
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


         


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER
More

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Media Images

Thank you for your interest in the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. To receive permission to the high-resolution version of any of these images please completely fill out and submit
the Photo Request form below. Upon receiving your completed form, our media team will either approve or deny your request or seek additional information.
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


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Balloon Fiesta Balloon Rides

Rainbow Ryders


As the official balloon ride concession for the world's largest ballooning event, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®, RAINBOW RYDERS, INC. is the only balloon ride company
authorized to take off from Balloon Fiesta Park during the Balloon Fiesta®. So come join the fun, embark upon a journey of uniqueness.
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


 ... More

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Photo Contest 2013

...each thumbnail to see a greater detail photo. See the photo contest rules here
...
Grand Prize Winner


Cathy Chemistruck

Windsor, Connecticut
...
Albuquerque Aloft Winners
...
Dawn Patrol Winners
...
Mass Ascension Winners
...
Balloon Glow Winners
...
Special Shape Rodeo Winners
...

More

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Entertainment Schedule

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta features many wonderful experiences!

In addition to the magical spectacle of balloons, we showcase some of the most talented performers of our day - most of them local New Mexicans - representing a myriad of styles and genres.
We hope you'll plan to attend Balloon Fiesta for each and every session to enjoy this line-up of world-class talent.  



If you are interested in being considered for a... More

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Americas Challenge

The 25th America's Challenge distance race for gas balloons did not start in 2022 due to persistent bad weather in the Albuquerque area and in areas
where the balloons would travel. The weather conditions made it impossible to conduct a safe, competitive race. We look forward to next year's America's Challenge -- and better weather.
 


Check out the News Archive.
...
America's Challenge 2022


More

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Gordon Bennett

.../> and five years later, the Herald merged with its hated rival the Tribune to become the New York Herald-Tribune.
...
Gordon Bennett Facts


Distance Record


At the 2005 Gordon Bennett in Albuquerque, Bob Berben and Benoit Simeons (Belgium) broke the distance record that was set in 1912.  Berben and Simeons flew a record 3400.39 KM (2112.9
miles).  2nd and 3rd place winners also broke the previous record.  2nd place... More

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Chasers Club

Chasers' Club


 The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is offering a special package for guests who would like to upgrade their Balloon Fiesta experience. Your Chasers’ Club ticket gives
you guaranteed seating in a private outdoor patio located next to the launch field where you can enjoy a catered meal along with cookies and beverages. Coffee is provided and is served along
with hot cocoa in the mornings and iced tea and lemonade are served... More

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Official Sponsors

Official Sponsors


We wish to express our gratitude to all our sponsors for supporting the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. If your name appears on this list without a link to your web site, please be
sure to contact your sales representative as soon as possible so we can send some of our visitors your way.
...
Corporate sponsors have played an intricate role in the development of Balloon Fiesta® and have helped it become the largest... More

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Avenza pdf Maps

Avenza PDF Maps


 The Avenza mobile app “PDF Maps” lets you easily view and track your position on the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta PZ Map using your mobile device.  Our
goal each year is to have the intial map available by September 15.


For the Avenza mobile app please click on the icon below for your device or go to:  https://www.avenzamaps.com/ and download the iOS or Android version.
More

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Balloon Fiesta Live!

Welcome to Balloon Fiesta® Live!


Balloon Fiesta Live! is a live stream of all 14 sessions of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®. Anchored by Glen Moyer and Art Lloyd Jr. It's the next best thing to being at
Balloon Fiesta in person! With multiple and unique camera angles, Glen and Art provide expert commentary based in part on their personal experience in flying hot air balloons and their
personal friendship with many of our pilots and crews... More

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Photo Contest: Rules

...megabytes

There is no limit of entries per person 

Photographs MUST be taken from October 7th through 15th, 2023. Photographs may be of any of the above categories related to
the 2023 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Photo submissions will be accepted October 7th through October 31st

Photographs must be taken and owned by entrant

Entrants retain the copyright to the photos, but grant... More

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Music Fiesta

...sunscreen



*TICKET SALES FOR THE ULTIMATE MUSIC FIESTA PACKAGE END ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2023. 




$499






ABQ "Dance" Box
Ticket required for persons of all ages



This is a standing and dance area only


Chairs are not provided


No chairs, tents, umbrellas or other shade structures are allowed
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Mass Ascension

...Banner.
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


         


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

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Contect with Us





         


Balloon Fiesta event tickets powered... More

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Photo Contest 2018

.../>
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#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

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ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

...
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  Balloon Fiesta event... More

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Get Tickets

...molestie.
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#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

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ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



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  Balloon Fiesta event... More

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Concessions

.../> ...
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LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

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  Balloon Fiesta event... More

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Buy a Brick

...deduction information.


 



...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

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  Balloon Fiesta event tickets powered by Elevate®. Festival... More

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Schedule

...molestie.
...
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LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

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  Balloon Fiesta event... More

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FAQ: Submit a Question

.../> ...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

...
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  Balloon Fiesta event... More

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Media Coverage

...Categories
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LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

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  Balloon Fiesta event... More

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Hot Air History

.../> ...
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LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

...
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  Balloon Fiesta event... More

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Poster Archive

...are for sale at BalloonFiestastuff.com.


 
...
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LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

...
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  Balloon Fiesta event tickets powered by Elevate®. Festival... More

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Media Blog

.../> ...
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LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

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  Balloon Fiesta event... More

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Photo Contest 2016

.../>
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LATEST NEWS

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ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER
//

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  Balloon Fiesta® event tickets powered by... More

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Photo Contest 2015

.../>
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LATEST NEWS

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//

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  Balloon Fiesta® event tickets powered by... More

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Photo Contest 2014

.../>
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LATEST NEWS

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//

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  Balloon Fiesta® event tickets powered by... More

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Photo Contest 2012

.../>
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LATEST NEWS

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//

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  Balloon Fiesta® event tickets powered by... More

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Photo Contest 2010

.../>
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LATEST NEWS

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  Balloon Fiesta® event tickets powered by... More

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Photographer Application

...sessions and must complete all assigned tasks

The photographer will receive all standard Navigator benefits including access to Navigator Hospitality.

...
Interested in being an official photographer for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta? Read the expectations below and be ready to apply for 2024 when the window reopens.


Applications open March 1, 2024 - Applications close April 15, 2024


Have... More

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Media Application

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta


Media Application
More

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Americas Challenge 2019

...(Team 1), the winners of the 23rd America's Challenge! 



Official Results



We've moved to a new, satellite based tracking system this year!  See it here, or for more details check out this guide.
On a mobile device, you'll need to download the app and add the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta "Race".
...
See entire list of updates.
More

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Wall of Fame

The Wall of Fame was created to recognize the people who have filled significant roles with the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® over the years. Those roles include Hall of
Fame inductees, Heritage Award recipients, Current and Past presidents of AIBF, Balloonmeisters, and AIBF Executive Directors.  Individuals are listed alphabetically.More

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FAQs: Volunteering

...email balloons@balloonfiesta.com.
...
Does Balloon Fiesta provide accommodations for Navigators?
...
Balloon Fiesta is not in a position to pay for accommodations if you are traveling from outside the Albuquerque area. We may be able to offer a discounted  RV space, click here for RV space criteria.  For more information, email balloons@balloonfiesta.com.
...
How do you sign up as a Navigator?
...
More

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Glamping

Glamping
...
Experience the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in a whole new way - Glamping! Glamping tents are now available in an exclusive location in Balloon Fiesta Park. Enjoy spectacular
views of the balloons flying high against a stunning background of the Sandia Mountains from the tent village. No need to battle the traffic, you'll be walking distance to the launch field.
In this exclusive location you will have access to restroom and shower... More

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Americas Challenge 2022 Teams

...U.S. Ballooning Hall of Fame --is one of the most respected and celebrated balloonists in America, with a lifetime
of achievement in hot air and gas ballooning and in supporting world-record flights. Padelt may be best-known in Albuquerque as the builder of the Two Eagles balloon envelope that carried
Troy Bradley and Leonid Tiukhtyaev more than 6,600 miles (nearly 10,700 km) across the Pacific in 2015. He has been flying balloons since 1972, is a formidable... More

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COVID-19 Updates

COVID-19 Information
...
 


 2023 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta


updated 1/03/2023


Covid-19 Information


There are no Covid-19 restrictions to attend Balloon Fiesta at this time, but we do suggest the following:


•    If you feel ill or if you have a fever, please do not attend Balloon Fiesta. If you have already purchased tickets, you will... More

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Group Tours

Group Tour Hospitality Package
...
For tour groups coming to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, we offer a special package for groups of 14 or more arriving in a single-vehicle or bus.


The Group Tour Package includes:


Admission to the event

Access to our Group Tour Hospitality Tent & Patio

Premium parking for your bus.



Upon your arrival, a crew of volunteers and... More

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Know Before You Go

...areas will be a NO DRONE ZONE

October 7-15, 2023 for more information please visit Drone page.


 The Weather Stations that are on our PZ map can be found HERE.


 An interactive Albuquerque Bike Map for mobile devices can
be found HERE.


  A PDF Bike Trail Map can be downloaded HERE.


 
...
Know Before You GO!


What's Allowed and Not Allowed at... More

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Paul Smith

Thanks Paul!


Paul Smith is retiring after 26 years at Balloon Fiesta!


Paul has been the Executive Director of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, or AIBF almost as long as we've been flying from our current location.
Paul initially connected with Balloon Fiesta as a pilot in 1982 when he when participated in his first Balloon Fiesta. He still flies balloons today, usually placing in the top ten of the
AAAA Flying Events competition... More

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Pilot Application - Applications Closed

PILOT APPLICATIONS FOR 2024


If you are interested in particpating in the 2024 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, applications will open on March 4, 2024 at 9AM MST. 


If you have any questions please feel free to contact Taylor Caldwell (tcaldwell@balloonfiesta.com More

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Concierge Program

...tickets are nonrefundable. Safety of all of our Balloon Fiesta guests, including pilots and crews, will always come first
regarding making decisions whether the balloons inflate. While October is generally ideal for ballooning in Albuquerque, less than ideal weather at Balloon Fiesta Park or in the vicinity, can
sometimes prevent the balloons from inflating. If the decision to not allow the balloons to inflate is made, Balloon Fiesta will rain-check that session. If your... More

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General Admission

...are nonrefundable.

Safety of all of our Balloon Fiesta guests, including pilots and crews, will always come first regarding making decisions whether the balloons inflate. While October is generally ideal for
ballooning in Albuquerque, less than ideal weather at Balloon Fiesta Park or in the vicinity, can sometimes prevent the balloons from inflating. If the decision to not allow the balloons to
inflate is made, Balloon Fiesta will rain-check that session. You are... More

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Gondola Club

...tickets are nonrefundable. Safety of all of our Balloon Fiesta guests, including pilots and crews, will always come first
regarding making decisions whether the balloons inflate. While October is generally ideal for ballooning in Albuquerque, less than ideal weather at Balloon Fiesta Park or in the vicinity, can
sometimes prevent the balloons from inflating. If the decision to not allow the balloons to inflate is made, Balloon Fiesta will rain-check that session. You are... More

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Bike Valet

Beat the traffic and ride your bike to Balloon Fiesta!  Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta has created a Bike Valet service where you can ride in and enjoy Fiesta, while missing
out on the traffic.  So, avoid the congestion, take two wheels instead of four!





 
...
The bike trail runs along the AMAFCA North Diversion Channel,  crosses underneath Paseo del Norte and Alameda Blvd. continuing north where it crosses... More

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Balloon Fiesta Live! Giveaway

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Balloon Fiesta Live! wants to reward some lucky viewers with a free NM Hot Air Balloon replica license plate, featuring BFLive!


Three winners will be randomly chosen during each of the 14 sessions of the 2023 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.


To enter the giveaway, complete the form below. Note that all fields with a * are required fields. Other fields are
optional but will be helpful to us in improving Balloon Fiesta Live... More

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Volunteers-New

...DESCRIPTIONS!


Mission


To conduct the world's premier ballooning event while renewing friendships and promoting camaraderie among all participants and promoting the sport of ballooning, the City of Albuquerque and
the State of New Mexico, nationally and internationally.


New Navigator Applications


We accept applications for new Navigators from February 1 - August 31 (PLEASE SEE THE BELOW COMMENT.)
More

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Park Ride

...are nonrefundable. 
Safety of all of our Balloon Fiesta guests, including pilots and crews, will always come first regarding making decisions whether the balloons inflate. While October is
generally ideal for ballooning in Albuquerque, less than ideal weather at Balloon Fiesta Park or in the vicinity, can sometimes prevent the balloons from inflating. If the decision to not
allow the balloons to inflate is made, Balloon Fiesta will rain-check that session. In case of a... More

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Hall of Fame

In 1983 the Hall of Fame was created to honor those who have made substantial contributions to the success of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta or have made important
contributions to AIBF and/or the sport of ballooning. The past presidents of the Board of Directors accept nominations and vote on possible inductees in late summer with any induction taking
place during the Awards Ceremony held the last Saturday of Balloon Fiesta. 
...
The... More

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Photo Contest 2023

...events, nature and anything that caught her creative
eye. She climbed mountains and traveled the world to find her next great shot.


Cindy was also licensed hot air balloon pilot, the official photographer for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, and a member of Women in
Aviation and The Balloon Federation of America. Cindy was a beloved member and integral part of the Hot Air Ballooning community.


Through her photography, Cindy... More