Pilot Participation 2024

...
477


Chase, Brian


Moscow


PA


USA


Billy The Kid


Q11




532


Chavez, Laurie


Albuquerque


NM


USA


Jesse's Girl


K10




162


Chen, Changling


Shenzhen


Guangdong


China
... More

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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, or Quad... More

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Fiesta de Los Globitos

...

Second Operator




Lysa Accardi


Gulfport


Mississippi


Ringmaster


 




Carlette Ahrens


Albuquerque


New Mexico


Duocorn


Ryan Ahrens




Frank Anger


Belden


Mississippi


Dartmouth


Carrie Anger

... 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.
...
Charlotte Kinney obtained her balloon pilot license in 1977, started volunteering at Balloon Fiesta shortly afterward. She became the first female... 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.


CLICK HERE TO REGISTER


... 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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FAQs

...the dates of future Balloon Fiestas?
...
2025 October 4-12

2026 October 3-11

2027 October 2-10

2028 October 7-15

2029 October 6-14

2030 October 5-13
...
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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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 smoked bacon, house-made... 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 tent, you... More

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FAQs: Gondola Club

...Gondola Club Packets for purchases made after September 19, 2025.  Below are ways to get your Gondola Club Packet after September 20th:  


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 4-12 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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Albuquerque Aloft

Nearly 200 pilots who are registered for Balloon Fiesta signed up to participate in Albuquerque Aloft this year. Pilots tether or launch their balloons from selected school grounds in
Albuquerque and Rio Rancho on the Friday morning before Balloon Fiesta.
...
Albuquerque Aloft has grown tremendously since the first event in 2005 and continues to bring the joy of ballooning directly to children in their school playgrounds. It is a great way to kick
off the beginning of... More

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Purchase Tickets

...The 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... 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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Media

...and float over Balloon Fiesta Park and the Rio Grande. The Balloon Fiesta is the world's largest and
premier international ballooning event. It is 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). The Albuquerque Box is great for spectators and pilots, providing the potential for hot air... 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 experiences on... More

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RV Information

UPDATE


RV spaces are sold out for the 2025 Balloon Fiesta


Due to high demand, the waitlist is now closed  to new requests. 


Thank you for your interest in attending the 53rd ExxonMobil Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and staying with us in one of our RV lots.


   


Updated  04/03/2025 2:25pm
...
RV Reservations Pricing
...




Site... More

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Volunteers-AIBF

...you are assigned to. May be required to lift up to 50 pounds Be able to
stand for long periods of time for each shift.


*Skybox - VIP area that hosts small groups. Duties include: pre-event onsite set-up, prepare each Sky Box daily for guest arrivals, monitor
private parking area as guests arrive,  check and collect parking passes, make sure guests park in an orderly fashion, assist guests as needed, clean and restock service areas,
post-event... 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 once inside Balloon Fiesta... 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 major... 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 camaraderie... More

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Web Information

...remove 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 used to... More

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International Pilots

...an FAA 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:


Team... 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 you... More

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Balloon Fiesta Live! Archives

...out 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 live... More

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Home2021

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®


October 4-12


2025


 For updated ticket and event information please sign up for our newsletter below.

We look forward to welcoming you to Albuquerque and to the Balloon Fiesta!



 
... 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 his credit... 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.


ABQRide... More

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Pilot Crew Videos

...the Balloon Fiesta YouTube 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

...Contest 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 time... 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 Winners
...
... More

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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

PILOT NEWS


2025 Pilot Application will open on March 3, 2025 at 9AM


Use this link for the application: 2025
APPLICATION
...
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 NEWS
... 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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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


       


... More

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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

...Click 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
...

2017... 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

...in 1918,
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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Recognitions

Recognizing those who have gone above and beyond!


 


The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta has been successful for nearly 50 years due to the hard work and dedication of a lot of people. We try to
recognize everyone who contributes on whatever level when they contribute. However, there are those who have gone above and beyond. To honor them, we have special recognition programs in
place. 


They include:


... 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 elevate 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 during... More

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Mission Statement

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®


Mission Statement


 


To conduct the world’s premier ballooning event, while promoting the sport of ballooning, the City of Albuquerque, and the State of New Mexico nationally and
internationally. AIBF wishes to have balloonists from all over the world attend this event for the advancement of the sport of aerostation,renewing friendships, and promoting camaraderie
among all... More

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Contact Us

...as possible. You will always be able to contact our
headquarters at balloons@balloonfiesta.com


Use the form at the bottom of the page to Email staff members.
...
Mailing Address


Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, Inc.  

4401 Alameda Boulevard N.E. 

Albuquerque, NM 87113
...
Balloon Fiesta Park


5000 Balloon Fiesta Pkwy NE 

(for GPS planning... 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.


Once... More

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Mass Ascension

...of The Star Spangled Banner.
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


         


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

...
Contect with Us





         


Balloon Fiesta event tickets powered by... More

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Photo Contest 2018

...photo.

...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

...
Connect with Us





           


  Balloon Fiesta event tickets powered... More

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Get Tickets

...at faucibus sem molestie.
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

...
Connect with Us





           


  Balloon Fiesta event tickets powered... More

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Concessions

...please click here. 
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

...
Connect with Us





           


  Balloon Fiesta event tickets powered... More

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Buy a Brick

...the brick walls are complely filled. 


 



...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

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

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Schedule

...at faucibus sem molestie.
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

...
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  Balloon Fiesta event tickets powered... More

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FAQ: Submit a Question

...to review our FAQ's?
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

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  Balloon Fiesta event tickets powered... More

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Media Coverage

...
Categories
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

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  Balloon Fiesta event tickets powered... More

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Hot Air History

...and wikipedia.org
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

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  Balloon Fiesta event tickets powered... More

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Media Blog

...Media Blog
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER



//

...
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  Balloon Fiesta event tickets powered... More

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Photo Contest 2016

...
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER
//

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

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Photo Contest 2015

...
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER
//

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

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Photo Contest 2014

...
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER
//

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

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Photo Contest 2012

...
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER
//

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

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Photo Contest 2010

...
...
#BALLOONFIESTA


       


 



LATEST NEWS

...
ALBUQUERQUE WEATHER
//

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

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Media Application

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta


Media Application
More

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Americas Challenge 2019

...of Poland (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.
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Inside the Basket Interviews

...the Basket - Alain Baird, Balloon Pilot


September 13, 2024


There will be 106 Special Shapes balloons flying in the 52nd event, and 16 making their Balloon Fiesta debut this year! In this month’s Inside the Basket, get to know
pilot Alain Baird from Canada, who will be flying Météo, his special shape “weather balloon”.  Join us in welcoming him along with the other international
pilots to Albuquerque...  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 allowed to use them... More

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Mobile App

The 2024 Official Balloon Fiesta® Mobile App sponsored by Visit Albuquerque will change the perspective of how Balloon Fiesta goers experience the event. With an array of features
that take the guest experience to the next level, our guests will be able to take control of their experience at Balloon Fiesta Park by selecting their favorite balloon or pilot. With the app
you can find almost anything in the Park.  Our app also offers daily event schedules as well as... 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 Balloon Fiesta staff... 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 the Park... 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. It... More

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Balloon Rides

Rainbow Ryders' — Official Balloon Ride


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.


Call and reserve your seat to an unknown destination, fun and excitement with... More

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Gondola Club

...nonrefundable.


The 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... 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 from the... More

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ADA Accessability

...Requests may be made via email to:

balloons@balloonfiesta.com

Please include the subject line "ADA Placard Request"


Requests may also be made via mail to:

AIBF

4401 Alameda NE

Albuquerque, NM 87113

ATTN: ADA Placard Request


Again, please note that all parking, including ADA parking, is first come, first served and is $20 per session.
...




  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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Concierge Program

...nonrefundable.


The 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... 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 trailers, as... More

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Photographer Application

2025 Photographer Application
...
Interested in being an official photographer for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta? Read the expectations below and be ready to apply when the window opens.


Applications closed April 1, 2025, 12:01 AM Mountain Time


We are currently reviewing the applications and should send notifications in the next couple of the weeks.


Have questions? Contact Ken... 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 future... More

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Event Schedule

...punctuating the skyline. During
this season, the sky is bluer, the days are gentler, and the mornings crisper -- almost as though the landscape has taken a deep sigh -- and on the desert’s warm breath sails the annual
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. 


2025 Schedule of Events


 
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Coca-Cola Day
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Kids' Day Presented by Chick-fil-A®
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ExxonMobil Day
... 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 Art Lloyd Jr. and Ted Maes, It's the next best thing to being at
Balloon Fiesta in person! With multiple and unique camera angles, Art and Ted 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 from... More

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Photo Contest 2024

...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 shared... More

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Park Ride

...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... More

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General Admission

...The 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... More