balloon trip music

• Music (SSBM)

The music in Super Smash Bros. Melee was composed and arranged by Hirokazu Ando, Shogo Sakai, Tadashi Ikegami, and Takuto Kitsuta. Among other sources, most of the orchestral music was sequenced using two sound libraries called Peter Siedlaczek's Advanced Orchestra and Quantum Leap Brass, while other songs were sequenced using the Roland Sound Canvas. [1] A select few tracks are also recorded with a live orchestra referred to as "Orchestra Melee", who later performed the Smashing...Live! soundtrack suite. The tracks as they are presented in the game's Sound Test are listed and described here. Almost all of the game's music can be heard in the game's Sound Test feature, and they are given their "official titles" there.

• 1.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 2.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 3.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 4.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 5.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 6.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 7.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 8.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 9.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 10.1 Origin
• 10.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 11.1 Origin
• 11.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 12.1 Origin
• 12.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 13.1 Origin
• 13.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 14.1 Origin
• 14.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 14.4 Trivia
• 15.1 Origin
• 15.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 16.1 Origin
• 16.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 17.1 Origin
• 17.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 18.1 Origin
• 18.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 19.1 Origin
• 19.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 20.1 Origin
• 20.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 21.1 Origin
• 21.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 22.1 Origin
• 22.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 23.1 Origin
• 23.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 24.1 Origin
• 24.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 25.1 Origin
• 25.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 26.1 Origin
• 26.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 27.1 Origin
• 27.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 28.1 Origin
• 28.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 29.1 Origin
• 29.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 30.1 Origin
• 30.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 31.1 Origin
• 31.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 32.1 Origin
• 32.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 32.4 Trivia
• 33.1 Origin
• 33.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 34.1 Origin
• 34.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 35.1 Origin
• 35.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 36.1 Origin
• 36.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 37.1 Origin
• 37.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 37.4 Trivia
• 38.1 Origin
• 38.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 39 Victory themes
• 40.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 41.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 42.1 Origin
• 42.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 43.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 44.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 45.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 46.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 47.1 Origin
• 47.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 48.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 49.1 Origin
• 49.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 50.1 Origin
• 50.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 51.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 52.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 53.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 54.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 55.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 56.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 57.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 58.2 In later games
• 58.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 59.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 60.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 61.1 Origin
• 61.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 62.1 Origin
• 62.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 63.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 64.2 Composition & Arrangements
• 65.1 Origin
• 65.3 Composition & Arrangements
• 66 Other music tracks
• 67 Unlocking Method
• 69 References

Opening [ edit ]

Origin [ edit ].

Opening is an original music track for Melee ; many other music tracks in Melee are remixes of Opening .

Usage [ edit ]

This track plays when Melee 's Opening Sequence plays, prior to the title screen . At the end of the track, the announcer shouts the game's title.

Composition & Arrangements [ edit ]

Original Composer: Shogo Sakai

Japanese title: オープニング , Opening

Princess Peach's Castle [ edit ]

This track is an overlapping arrangement of two music tracks from Super Mario Bros. : the Ground Theme and the Underground Theme .

This track plays on the Princess Peach's Castle stage and the first part of the Mushroom Kingdom stage in Adventure Mode . It also plays when fighting against a team of Mario and Bowser on Battlefield in Classic Mode . The track is Bowser 's Credits theme.

Original Arranger: Shogo Sakai

Original Composer: Koji Kondo

Japanese title: ピーチ城 , Peach Castle

Rainbow Cruise [ edit ]

This track is a medley of two music pieces from the Mario series. The first track is the Slider theme from Super Mario 64 , which plays on Rainbow Ride (the level that Rainbow Cruise is based upon). The second track is the Underwater Theme from Super Mario Bros.

This track plays on the Rainbow Cruise stage and the battle with Mario/Luigi and Peach on Princess Peach's Castle in Adventure Mode . It is also Peach 's Credits theme.

Japanese title: レインボークルーズ , Rainbow Cruise

Kongo Jungle [ edit ]

This track is a reprise of the DK Rap from Donkey Kong 64 with a more varied backing track, as well as a new vocalist, James W. Norwood Jr..

This track plays on the Kongo Jungle stage. It also plays on Fourside during Event 25: Gargantuans . It also plays on Jungle Japes when fighting Team Donkey Kong in Classic Mode . It is one of Donkey Kong 's Credits themes.

Vocals: James W. Norwood Jr.

Original Arranger: Hirokazu Ando

Original Composer: Grant Kirkhope

Japanese title: コンゴジャングル , Kongo Jungle

Trivia [ edit ]

• The first line of the fourth verse (which refers to Diddy Kong ) has "it's" added to it.
• The second line of the fifth verse (which refers to Chunky Kong ) starts with "He's" instead of "It's".
• The line "But this Kong's one hell of a guy" (the last line of Chunky's verse) is changed to "But this Kong's one heck of a guy".
• As an additional change from the original, before looping back to Donkey Kong's verse, a spoken version of the intro can be heard.
• This is the first track with vocals in the Super Smash Bros. series, and the only one to appear in Melee .

Jungle Japes [ edit ]

This track is a jazz-based remix of DK Island Swing from Donkey Kong Country , which was also used as the theme of the Jungle Japes stage in Donkey Kong 64 .

This track plays on the Jungle Japes stage. It is one of Donkey Kong 's Credits themes.

Original Composer: David Wise

Japanese title: ジャングルガーデン , Jungle Garden

• This arrangement of the song would later be used as a playable song in the Japanese version of Donkey Konga 2 under the name "Super Donkey Kong Theme".

Great Bay [ edit ]

This track is an orchestrated remix of the Overworld Theme from The Legend of Zelda , a recurring theme in the Zelda franchise.

This track plays on the Great Bay stage. It also plays on the Temple stage in Adventure Mode , Event 29: Triforce Gathering and the Final Destination stage while fighting Ganondorf in Event 49: All-Star Match Deluxe and when unlocking him. It is one of Link 's, Zelda 's, and Sheik 's Credits themes, and Ganondorf's only Credits theme.

Original Arranger: Takuto Kitsuta

Japanese title: グレートベイ , Great Bay

Temple [ edit ]

This track is an atmospheric remix of the Dungeon Theme from Zelda II: The Adventure of Link .

This track plays on the Temple stage and in the Underground Maze . It is one of Link 's Credits themes.

Original Composer: Akito Nakatsuka

Japanese title: 神殿 , Temple

• In an interview on the original Super Smash Bros. Melee website, Shogo Sakai stated that the arrangement was originally going to sound more eerie and ominous , a choice that was inspired by the tone of the Dungeon Theme from the first Legend of Zelda game and Yotsuya Kaidan , a famous Japanese ghost story. Realizing that few would understand the reference, the arrangement was revised.

Brinstar [ edit ]

This track is a rock-based remix of the Brinstar theme from Metroid ; it also includes segments of the Game Start and Title Screen themes.

This track plays on the Brinstar stage. It is one of Samus 's Credits themes.

Original Composer: Hirokazu Tanaka

Japanese title: ブリンスタ , Brinstar

Brinstar Depths [ edit ]

This track is a techno remix of Kraid's Lair from Metroid , as well as the Secret Room music from the same game.

This track plays on the Brinstar Depths stage. It is one of Samus 's Credits themes.

Japanese title: ブリンスタ深部 , Brinstar Depths

Yoshi's Story [ edit ]

This track is an uptempo, samba-based remix of Yoshi's Song , the main motif of Yoshi's Story .

This track plays on the Yoshi's Story stage. It is one of Yoshi 's Credits themes.

Original Composer: Kazumi Totaka

Japanese title: ヨッシーストーリー , Yoshi Story

Yoshi's Island [ edit ]

This track is a banjo-based remix of the Athletic Theme from Super Mario World . Later on in this remix, a woodblock beat is added, similar to the woodblock beat heard when riding Yoshi in Super Mario World .

This track plays on the Yoshi's Island stage. It is one of Yoshi 's Credits themes.

Japanese title: ヨースター島 , Yoster Island

Fountain of Dreams [ edit ]

This track is a dramatic, orchestrated remix of the Gourmet Race music from Kirby Super Star , which is a recurring melody in the Kirby series. Arrangements based on this one would later go on to be used in several future Kirby games, like Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land (which also redesigned the Fountain of Dreams to resemble its appearance in Melee ) and Kirby Air Ride .

This track plays on the Fountain of Dreams stage. It can also play on the Green Greens stage during Adventure Mode . It is one of Kirby 's Credits themes.

Original Arranger: Tadashi Ikegami

Original Composer: Jun Ishikawa

Japanese title: 夢の泉 , Fountain of Dreams

Green Greens [ edit ]

The track is an orchestral remix of the Green Greens theme from Kirby's Dream Land , as well as the ending theme, Kirby's Triumphant Return , from Kirby Super Star .

This track plays on the Green Greens stage. It is one of Kirby 's Credits themes. It also plays on Corneria during Event 16: Kirby's Air-raid .

Japanese title: グリーングリーンズ , Green Greens

Corneria [ edit ]

This track is an orchestral remix of Venom from Star Fox , with small excerpts of the Map Screen music and the Space Armada stage theme inserted.

This track plays on the Corneria stage. It also plays when unlocking Falco on Battlefield . It is one of Fox 's and Falco 's Credits themes.

Original Composer: Hajime Hirasawa

Japanese title: 惑星コーネリア , Planet Corneria

• The fact that a remix of the Venom music track from Star Fox would play on the Corneria stage is ironic, as Melee features its own Venom stage which does not feature this music piece as an option.
• This music also plays on the unused stage, TEST .

Venom [ edit ]

This track is an orchestral remix of the Main Theme from Star Fox 64 .

This track plays on the Venom stage. It also plays during the first battle on the Corneria stage during Adventure Mode . It is one of Fox 's and Falco 's Credits themes.

Japanese title: 惑星ベノム , Planet Venom

Pokémon Stadium [ edit ]

This track is an orchestral remix of the Main Theme from Pokémon , a track that typically plays on the title screen of most Pokémon games. This arrangement is reminiscent of the version of the song that often plays in early seasons of the Pokémon anime series.

This track plays on the Pokémon Stadium stage. It is one of Pikachu 's and Jigglypuff 's Credits themes.

Original Composer: Junichi Masuda

Japanese title: ポケモンスタジアム , Pokémon Stadium

Poké Floats [ edit ]

This track is a synthesized medley of three battle themes from the first generation of Pokémon : Battle! Trainer , Battle! Gym Leader , and Battle! Wild Pokémon .

This track plays on the Poké Floats stage. It also plays on the Battlefield stage when fighting Mewtwo in All-Star Mode , on the Final Destination stage when fighting it in Event 40: All-Star Match 4 and while unlocking it, and on the Pokémon Stadium and Final Destination stages when fighting it in Classic Mode . It is one of Pikachu 's Credits themes, and Mewtwo 's only Credits theme.

Japanese title: ポケモン亜空間 , Pokémon Subspace

Mute City [ edit ]

This track is a rock-based remix of the Mute City theme from F-Zero and F-Zero X ; this remix is based on the F-Zero X version. The guitars were performed by Hiroaki Yoshida (also known as MARO), [2] and the drums were performed by Takuto Kitsuta, the arranger of the piece. [3]

This track plays on the Mute City stage. It also plays on Jungle Japes during Event 17: Bounty Hunters . It is also one of Captain Falcon 's Credits themes.

Original Composer: Yumiko Kanki

Japanese title: ミュートシティ , Mute City

Big Blue [ edit ]

This track is a rock-based remix of the Big Blue theme from F-Zero and F-Zero X ; this remix is based on the F-Zero X version.

This track plays on the Big Blue stage. It is also one of the tracks that can play in the F-Zero Grand Prix level in Adventure Mode . It is one of Captain Falcon 's Credits themes.

Original Composer: Naoto Ishida

Japanese title: ビッグブルー , Big Blue

Mother [ edit ]

This track is a medley of music tracks from EarthBound Beginnings , otherwise known as Mother . The main track is Bein' Friends , the theme that plays when Ninten has one partner accompanying him. The second track is the Eight Melodies , the main theme of EarthBound Beginnings as a whole. The final portion of the work is the game's title screen theme, Mother Earth , as well as a brief sample of the standard Enemy Encounter Theme .

This track plays on the Onett stage. It is one of Ness 's Credits themes.

Original Composer: Keiichi Suzuki, Hirokazu Tanaka

Japanese title: マザー , Mother

EarthBound [ edit ]

This track is a techno-based remix of the theme for Fourside and Because I Love You in EarthBound . There are also portions of the Eight Melodies and sound effects taken from EarthBound .

This track plays on the Fourside stage. It also plays on Battlefield when fighting Falco and Captain Falcon during Event 36: Space Travelers . It is one of Ness 's Credits themes.

Japanese title: マザー2 , Mother 2

Mushroom Kingdom [ edit ]

This track is an emulation of the original chiptune Overworld Theme from Super Mario Bros.

This track plays on the Mushroom Kingdom stage.

Japanese title: いにしえの王国 , Ancient Kingdom

Mushroom Kingdom (Finale) [ edit ]

In Super Mario Bros. , when the time limit on a level came close to running out, a Hurry Up! jingle would play and the background music would speed up. This track is an emulation of said Hurry Up! theme.

In a timed Vs. Mode match on the Mushroom Kingdom stage, this track will take over from the Mushroom Kingdom music track when the match timer reaches 20 seconds. This track will also play when a match goes to Sudden Death .

Japanese title: いにしえの王国 (ラスト) , Ancient Kingdom (Last)

Mushroom Kingdom II [ edit ]

This track is a recording of the original chiptune Overworld Theme from Super Mario Bros. 2 .

This track plays on the Mushroom Kingdom II stage. It is Luigi 's Credits theme.

Japanese title: いにしえの王国II , Ancient Kingdom II

Mushroom Kingdom II (Finale) [ edit ]

This track is a recording of the original chiptune Boss Theme from Super Mario Bros. 2 .

In a timed Vs. Mode match on the Mushroom Kingdom II stage, this track will take over from the Mushroom Kingdom II music track when the match timer reaches 20 seconds. This track will also play when a match goes to Sudden Death .

Japanese title: いにしえの王国II (ラスト) , Ancient Kingdom II (Last)

Icicle Mountain [ edit ]

This track is a synthesized, jazz-inspired arrangement of two music tracks from Ice Climber : the Bonus Stage Theme and the Stage Theme .

This track plays on the Icicle Mountain stage, and the Icicle Mountain level in Adventure Mode . It is one of Ice Climbers ' Credits themes.

Japanese title: アイシクルマウンテン , Icicle Mountain

Flat Zone [ edit ]

This track, an original composition for Super Smash Bros. Melee , is a techno-based theme that includes various Game & Watch sound effects.

This track plays on the Flat Zone stage. It is Mr. Game & Watch 's Credits theme.

Original Composer: Hirokazu Ando

Japanese title: フラットゾーン , Flat Zone

Kongo Jungle N64 [ edit ]

Like Jungle Japes , this track is a remix of DK Island Swing from Donkey Kong Country . This music is recorded from the Nintendo 64 game Super Smash Bros. , where it likewise plays on the Congo Jungle stage.

This track plays on the Kongo Jungle N64 stage.

Japanese title: コンゴジャングル (旧) , Kongo Jungle (Old)

Yoshi's Island N64 [ edit ]

This track is another remix of Yoshi's Song from Yoshi's Story . This music is recorded from the Nintendo 64 game Super Smash Bros. , where it likewise plays on the Yoshi's Island stage.

This track plays on the Yoshi's Island N64 stage. This can also play as alternate music in Classic Mode on the Yoshi's Story while fighting Yoshi .

Japanese title: ヨッシーアイランド (旧) , Yoshi Island (Old)

Dream Land N64 [ edit ]

Like Fountain of Dreams , this track is also a remix of the Gourmet Race theme, though significantly more faithful to the original. This music is recorded from the Nintendo 64 game Super Smash Bros. , where it likewise plays on the Dream Land stage.

This track plays on the Dream Land stage. It also plays during the Giant Kirby fight in Adventure Mode .

Japanese title: プププランド (旧) , Pupupu Land (Old)

Super Mario Bros. 3 [ edit ]

This track is a reggae-based arrangement of two music tracks from Super Mario Bros. 3 : the Overworld Theme and the Grass Land map theme.

This track can play on the Yoshi's Island stage. It also plays when fighting Bowser in All-Star Mode , and can play in the Mushroom Kingdom stage in Adventure Mode . It is Mario 's Credits theme.

Japanese title: スーパーマリオ3 , Super Mario 3

Saria's Theme [ edit ]

This track is an airy remix of Saria's Song , the theme of the Lost Woods from The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time .

This track can play on the Great Bay stage. It plays when fighting Young Link on Jungle Japes in All-Star Mode , and in Event 49: All-Star Match Deluxe . It also plays when fighting Young Link on the Temple stage in Classic Mode . It is one of Zelda 's and Sheik 's Credits themes, and Young Link 's only Credits theme. It can also play on Young Link's Break the Targets stage.

Japanese title: サリアの歌 , Saria's Song

In PAL versions of Super Smash Bros. Melee , the track is named after its title in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time , that being Saria's Song .

Battle Theme [ edit ]

This track is a synthesized medley of three battle themes from the second generation of Pokémon : Battle! Johto Wild Pokémon , Battle! Johto Gym Leader , and Battle! Champion .

This track can play on the Pokémon Stadium stage. It also plays when fighting Pichu on Fourside in All-Star Mode and Event 49: All-Star Match Deluxe , and when fighting Jigglypuff on Poké Floats in Event 40: All-Star Match 4 . It is one of Jigglypuff 's Credits themes, and Pichu 's only Credits theme.

Japanese title: ポケモンスタジアム金銀 , Pokémon Stadium Gold and Silver

Fire Emblem [ edit ]

This track is an arrangement of two recurring Fire Emblem music tracks that debuted in Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light : the Meeting Theme (variously known as "Come, Join Us" or "Together, We Ride!") and the Main Theme . Both songs, particularly the former, are more based on their arrangements from Fire Emblem: Mystery of the Emblem than the original Famicom versions.

This track can play on the Temple stage. It can also play in the Underground Maze . It also plays when fighting Marth on the Great Bay in Classic Mode , and when fighting him on Fountain of Dreams and Roy on Final Destination in All-Star Mode . Lastly, it plays on Fountain of Dreams when unlocking Marth , and on Temple when unlocking Roy . It is Marth and Roy 's Credits theme.

Original Composer: Yuka Tsujiyoko

Japanese title: ファイアーエムブレム , Fire Emblem

Mach Rider [ edit ]

This track is a medley of pieces from the NES game Mach Rider . The track begins with the Title Screen theme, before transitioning to the Course Theme . The next two tracks are the Course Select theme, followed by the jingle that plays when a course is selected. The medley finishes with the Game Over jingle.

This track can play on the Big Blue stage, and the F-Zero Grand Prix level in Adventure Mode .

Original Composer: Hideki Kanazashi

Japanese title: マッハライダー , Mach Rider

Mother 2 [ edit ]

This track is a soft rock remix of Pollyanna (I Believe in You) from EarthBound Beginnings , where it plays as the overworld theme when no one is accompanying Ninten. The music reappears in EarthBound and Mother 3 . The layout is mainly based on the vocal version by Catherine Warwick from the CD.

This track can play on the Onett stage.

Original Composer: Keiichi Suzuki

Japanese title: マザー裏 , Mother Alternate

Dr. Mario [ edit ]

In the Dr. Mario series, the player can select which track to play during the game. This track is a remix of the default music, Fever . It is specifically based on the version heard in the Game Boy and SNES ports, which has an extra bridge segment at the end that is missing from the original NES theme.

Stage [ edit ]

This track can play on the Mushroom Kingdom and Mushroom Kingdom II stages. It also plays on Princess Peach's Castle when unlocking Dr. Mario . It is Dr. Mario 's Credits theme.

Japanese title: ドクターマリオ , Dr. Mario

This is the only music track in Melee to play on more than one stage in regular matches.

Balloon Fight [ edit ]

This track is a recording of the Balloon Trip music from Balloon Fight .

This track can play on the Icicle Mountain stage, as well as the Icicle Mountain level in Adventure Mode . It is one of Ice Climbers ' Credits themes.

Japanese title: バルーンファイト , Balloon Fight

Victory themes [ edit ]

Metal battle [ edit ].

This track will play when the player battles a metal character in Classic Mode , or Metal Mario (and Metal Luigi) in Adventure Mode on the Battlefield stage.

Composition and arrangements copyright Nintendo.

Japanese title: メタルバトル , Metal Battle

Battlefield [ edit ]

This track plays on Battlefield in standard matches and Classic Mode , and while battling the Fighting Wire Frames during Adventure Mode . Battlefield also plays during Race to the Finish .

Japanese title: 戦場 , Battlefield

Final Destination [ edit ]

This track is a climactic, orchestral remix of the Credits theme of Super Smash Bros. . In the middle of the track, it switches to an ambient tune, with the main menu theme from the aforementioned game playing in a small piece.

This track plays on Final Destination outside of battles involving Giga Bowser .

Japanese title: 終点 , Endpoint

Menu 1 [ edit ]

Menu 1 plays on the game's main menu by default.

Japanese title: メニュー , Menu

Menu 2 [ edit ]

Menu 2 is a remix of the opening theme that is unlocked after obtaining every character and stage, after which point it has a random chance of playing on the game's main menu .

Japanese title: 新メニュー , New Menu

How to Play [ edit ]

How to Play is used when the player is viewing the tutorial movie that can be seen by waiting on the title screen for a short length of time, or by accessing it through Archives .

Targets! [ edit ]

Targets! plays when the player participates in the Break The Targets! or the Home-Run Contest mode.

Japanese title: ターゲットをこわせ！ , Break the Targets!

Multi-Man Melee 1 [ edit ]

This track is original to Super Smash Bros. Melee , being a synthesized rock remix of Opening .

This track can play whenever the player participates in Multi-Man Melee mode, with the other option being Multi-Man Melee 2 . It is also the alternate music track that may play on Battlefield .

Japanese title: 百人組み手1 , Hundred-Man Group Combat 1

Multi-Man Melee 2 [ edit ]

This track can play whenever the player participates in a Multi-Man Melee mode, with the other option being Multi-Man Melee 1 . Just like Multi-Man Melee 1 , this is a rock remix of the opening theme, yet is more upbeat and more faithful to the opening theme. It is also the alternate music track that may play on Final Destination . Additionally, it plays during Event 1: Trouble King and Event 51: The Showdown .

Japanese title: 百人組み手2 , Hundred-Man Group Combat 2

All-Star Intro [ edit ]

This track is a remix of the Save Area music from Kirby Super Star , itself an excerpt of Float Islands 's music from Kirby's Dream Land .

All-Star Intro plays whenever the player's character is in the All-Star Rest Area , which is only accessible in All-Star Mode , in between battles.

Japanese title: オールスター休憩所 , All-Star Rest Area

Tournament [ edit ]

Between Tournament Mode matches, two songs have an equal chance of playing.

Japanese title: トーナメント , Tournament

Trophy [ edit ]

Trophy plays in events related to trophies, such as the Lottery , Snag the Trophies , and the Trophy Tussle stages.

Japanese title: フィギュア , Figure

Classic Intro [ edit ]

Classic Intro will play during Classic Mode when the player's next opponent is being revealed, just before the battle begins.

Japanese title: シンプルイントロ , Simple Intro

Adventure Intro [ edit ]

Adventure Intro will play during Adventure Mode when the player's next level is being revealed, just before the stage begins.

Japanese title: アドベンチャーイントロ , Adventure Intro

Stage Clear [ edit ]

Upon clearing a stage in Classic Mode or Adventure Mode , one of two songs can play, with both having an equal chance.

Japanese title: ステージクリア , Stage Clear

Continue [ edit ]

Continue will play when the player's character loses all of their stock during Classic Mode or Adventure Mode , and is given the option to continue the mode at the expense of coins . This fanfare is also rearranged in Brawl for the same purpose, and is also reused in Smash 4 and Ultimate .

Japanese title: コンティニュー , Continue

Game Over [ edit ]

Game Over plays when the player loses all of their stock in Classic Mode or Adventure Mode and either does not have enough coins to continue the mode, or chooses "No" on the continue screen if they decide to exit. This fanfare is also rearranged in Brawl for the same purpose.

Japanese title: ゲームオーバー , Game Over

New Trophy [ edit ]

New Trophy plays whenever the player collects a randomly obtainable trophy via methods such as Lottery and Snag the Trophies . The fanfare is also used in Brawl and Smash 4 .

Japanese title: フィギュアゲット , Figure Get

Rare Trophy [ edit ]

Rare Trophy plays when the player uses the Lottery to get their 250th trophy.

In later games [ edit ]

• This fanfare is also used in Super Smash Bros. Brawl for Luigi , Ness and Captain Falcon 's unlock notice .
• In Super Smash Bros. 4 and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate , whenever a character is unlocked, downloaded, or when the game is booted after a character's release date in case of being purchased DLC characters via Fighters Pass in the latter game, a "[Character] Joins the battle!" screen is displayed while playing this fanfare, before archiving their corresponding milestones.

Japanese title: レアフィギュアゲット , Rare Figure Get

Challenger! [ edit ]

Challenger! plays on the Challenger Approaching screen prior to a character unlock battle.

Japanese title: チャレンジャー登場 , Challenger Appearance

New Feature [ edit ]

When unlocking a significant new feature, such as a playable character or stage , one of three tracks can play at random.

Japanese title: 新要素お知らせ , New Feature Notice

Hammer [ edit ]

In Donkey Kong , whenever Mario grabbed the Hammer , the music track Hammer would play as Mario swung it repeatedly.

In homage to the usage of the hammer item in Donkey Kong , this track will play when a character uses the hammer item in Melee .

Original Composer: Yukio Kaneoka

Japanese title: ハンマー状態 , Hammer Condition

Starman [ edit ]

In the Mario series, this track plays when using the Super Star power-up. This particular arrangement is recorded from the Nintendo 64 game Super Smash Bros.

Whenever a character is under the effects of the Starman item, this track will play for the duration of its usage.

Japanese title: 無敵状態 , Invincible Condition

Warning Siren [ edit ]

Warning Siren plays exclusively in Adventure Mode , specifically during Escape Zebes on the Brinstar Escape Shaft stage.

Japanese title: サイレン , Siren

Ending [ edit ]

This short piece serves as a victory theme when the player completes Classic Mode , Adventure Mode or All-Star Mode .

Japanese title: エンディング , Ending

Giga Bowser [ edit ]

This track is a distorted, techno remix of Final Destination .

This track exclusively plays when fighting Giga Bowser in Adventure Mode . It is the only major track not available in the Sound Test .

Copyright HAL Laboratory, Inc.

Japanese title: ギガクッパ , Giga Koopa

Other music tracks [ edit ]

The Sound Test features 80 entries in its music list (if counting short pieces including victory themes), but this is not the full selection of music in the game. However, many might identify the Giga Bowser battle music as the 81st track (for a total of 81 songs). In addition to the Giga Bowser battle music being not available in the Sound Test, several short unused pieces can be found in the debug sound test menu . [4]

Unlocking Method [ edit ]

Alternate tracks can only be unlocked when the player has unlocked a certain number of characters (Tracks #30, #32, #34, #35, #36, and #37 are unlocked after all characters are unlocked, while tracks #31 and #33 are unlocked after Marth and Young Link are unlocked). Track #55 only plays when the Sound Test is unlocked.

• Luigi 's introduction in Adventure Mode features the music from Peach's Castle in the original Super Smash Bros. This track, along with Giga Bowser 's theme, cannot be played in the Sound Test.

References [ edit ]

• ^ NEWER VGM Sound Sources - Google Sheets
• ^ Tadashi Ikegami: [...]The same thing happened during the recording for Mute City's guitar parts. Masahiro Sakurai: Oh, is that so? How did that go? Shogo Sakai: It was done by a guitarist named "MARO," from Data East, also of Gamadelic. — Melee Music Developer Roundtable: Monkey Rap (translated by Source Gaming)
• ^ Only Kitsuta is credited in the staff credits .
• ^ Super Smash Bros. Melee/Unused Audio - The Cutting Room Floor
• Super Smash Bros. Melee

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Savvy Travel Advice

Guide to Attending the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico

Last updated: April 14, 2024 - Written by Jessica Norah 233 Comments

The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is the largest hot air ballooning event in the world and is said to be the most photographed event on earth! Each October, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is held in Albuquerque, New Mexico and hundreds of balloonists and thousands of tourists from around the world flock to the Land of Enchantment for a chance to witness nine days of spectacular hot air ballooning events. Events include the mass ascension of hundreds of balloons, a gas balloon race, balloon glows, balloon competitions, and more!

This is a dazzling event of colorful beauty and one of my favorite festivals in the world. I have had the pleasure of attending the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta first in 2009 when I was living and working in Albuquerque and then again in 2016, 2018, and 2022. This post is updated with new information each year. 

Interested in attending the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta yourself? We’ll cover all the logistics, give you some tips for planning your time at the festival, share our own experience, and provide loads of photos from our own time attending the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta.

Table of Contents:

Information on Attending the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Before we share our experiences, we wanted to provide all the information you’ll need to attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta yourself!

When is the 2024 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta?

In 2024, the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is scheduled to be held from October 5, 2024 to October 13, 2024 .

In 2025, the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta will be held from October 4, 2025 to October 12, 2025.

The last festival was held in 2023 from October 7, 2023 to October 15, 2023. This was its 51st event.

Where are the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta events?

All the main events of the Balloon Fiesta take place at the Balloon Fiesta Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The Balloon Fiesta Park is located in northern Albuquerque. The park is located west of I-25, approximately 12 miles north of the Albuquerque International Sunport  airport, 7 miles north of downtown Albuquerque, and 5 miles east of Rio Rancho.

You’ll have to follow signs to park once you get close to the park, but if you need an address for your GPS you can use: 4401 Alameda Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113. Latitude: 35° 11.8 N  Longitude: 106° 35.8W

How many days should I attend the Balloon Fiesta?

I would plan to come for as many days as you can spare as the events are all weather-dependent. Some people just come for one day and hope for the best, but I would advise to come for at least 3 days so that you have a good chance of being able to see the balloons launch.

If you can be around all week, that would give you the best chance. If you come for the festival and the balloons go up early in your visit, you can then spend your time exploring Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and other nearby attractions. There is lots to do in the area.

What are the Main Events at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta?

There are a number of events that typically take places at each Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Some events take place on multiple days and some may take place only once.

Dawn Patrol Show

This is where at least one hot air balloon (often several) will take off before sunrise and fly to check on weather conditions and visibility of landing conditions. It is both practical as well as a tradition. Generally takes place around 6:00am and balloons normally launch to music.

Morning Glow

  This is where a number of balloons will line up and use their propane burners to light up in the morning before sunrise while still tethered to the ground. The pilots will do synchronized burns and such. These balloons will later launch with the rest of the balloons after sunrise.

Mass Ascension

This  is where hundreds of balloons all launch in the same morning, generally over a 1.5 to 2 hour period. They will launch in two waves so that for almost 2 hours there will be balloons being set up, inflated, and launched from the field. Visitors can walk around the launch field to see the balloon preparations and get different views as the balloons launch.

For many people, this is a highlight of the Balloon Fiesta. If the weather is good, the first balloons generally start launching a little after 7:00am following the Dawn Patrol, Morning Glow, and singing of the National Anthem.

Balloon Launch 

This is where a number of hot air balloons launch over the course of about 1 hour in the morning. It is a smaller version of a mass ascension described above. Visitors are welcome to walk around the launch field.

The regular balloon launches are generally scheduled for every weekday morning when there is not a mass ascension or Special Shapes morning event. There are usually much smaller crowds on these mornings, so if you want to get up close to a balloon launch without huge crowds, you might consider attending one of these events.

Note that the “Double Ascension” or “Double Launch” written on some of the schedules for the upcoming Balloon Fiesta refers to the two launches that will take place that morning: the morning ascension and the fly in competition. So these means there will be a regular morning Balloon Launch followed by the balloon fly in competition.

Evening Balloon Glows  

Taking place just before dusk, pilots inflate their hot air balloons and keep them tethered to the ground. Then once dark, the pilots will periodically ignite their propane burners so that the balloons light up and glow. They will do synchronized burns called “all burns” where all the balloons will light up at once.

The evening balloon glows (also called twinkle glows, and night magic glows, etc. but all the same thing) are generally followed by fireworks and laser light shows. The fireworks are generally very good and worth staying to watch!

America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race

This annual long-distance race starts from the Balloon Fiesta Park where pilots in specially designed gas balloons compete to see who can go the furthest distance without coming down. They have to take all their clothing, food, fuel, and gear with them on their flight.

Pilots could spend up to four days in their balloons and can go as far as the East Coast of the United States or Canada! However, most only make it to elsewhere in New Mexico or a neighboring state.

For visitors, you can see the gas balloons being inflated on field and can watch their launch. You can also then keep track of your favorite to see how far it goes and who wins.

Special Shape Balloon Events

In addition to the traditional and most common inverted teardrop shape balloons, there are numerous special shaped balloons. These balloons can be shaped as cartoon characters, beer mugs, carousels, Star Wars characters, animals, hearts, people, etc.

Special shape balloons are included in most of the other events but there is usually a day where only the Special shape balloons take off in the morning and do the evening glow. These are popular events for visitors and locals alike as it is fun to see all the shapes at one time. Each year people come to check out the new shapes and see the old favorites!

Some of the more beloved ones that are often at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta include Creamland’s Airabelle cow, Smokey the bear, the bees (there are 3 bee balloons I think), and the Wells Fargo huge stagecoach (a massive balloon at 128,000 cubic feet!). The newer Star Wars character balloons and other cartoon characters are also fan favorites.

Flying Competitions  

These events have balloon pilots test their skills as they compete doing tasks against other balloonists. Events may include fly-in tasks where they must drop something on a specific target and events where they must toss or grab rings from various poles.

These events are mostly attended by balloon pilots and enthusiasts, but anyone is welcome to watch.

Drone Light Shows

The drone light shows involve hundreds of choreographed drones lighting up the sky and they form figures and words while being set to music. The show is offered several times, on both mornings and evenings, typically before Dawn Patrol beings or before Night Glows start. Shows are 10 to 15 minutes in length.

The first drone light show was introduced for the 50th anniversary event in 2022 and it was definitely popular. It was a highlight for many people, including us, that year.

NOTE: No private or outside drones are allowed at the event or near the field during the entire fiesta.

Music Fiesta 

A music concert held at the Balloon Fiesta Park that typically features rock and/or country music performers. Normally held on a weekend afternoon in between the Morning Session and Evening Session. Attending the Music Fiesta requires an extra ticket that can be purchased in advance.

Other Events & Activities at Balloon Fiesta

Typically, there are also other attractions or events scheduled each year that take place in the afternoons or evenings at Balloon Fiesta Park, such as dance performances, chainsaw carving competitions, music events, skydiving performances, car shows, carnival games, children’s rides, etc. 

The Balloon Discovery Center is an educational center located on Main Street that offers guests the chance to learn about the sport of ballooning. There is also the Artisan Tent which has vendors selling all kinds of arts, crafts, and souvenirs from local artists.

There is also a number of business and sponsor tents, many offering free goodies and games. For instance, at the Canon tent (one the event’s major sponsors) they allow the public to try out cameras, take free souvenir photos, and even offered free cleaning of Canon mirrorless and DSLR cameras and lenses.

2024 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Schedule of Events

Here is the schedule for the 2024 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, and we’ll update it as things change. But this schedule should give you a good idea of how the Balloon Fiesta events are scheduled each year.

But please check latest schedule on the fiesta website to check for any changes.

Remember that all days have a Morning Session (5:30am to 10:00am) of ballooning events and most days also have an Evening Session (5:00pm to 9:00pm).

Please note that all the times listed are all approximate and all events are weather dependent!

Saturday October 5th

5:45am – Drone Light Show 6:00am – Dawn Patrol 6:30am – Morning Glow 7:00am – Opening Ceremonies for the 2024 event 7:00am – Mass ascension 8:00am – Chainsaw carving begins (throughout morning and afternoon sessions) 10:00am – Chainsaw carving auction 2:00pm – America’s Challenge gas balloon begin to inflate (can see on field throughout afternoon/early evening) 5:00pm – Skydiving performance 6:00pm – America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race launch 6:00pm – Night Glow 7:30pm – Skydiving performance 7:45pm – Drone Light Show 8:00pm – Fireworks Show

*This is the first official day of the Balloon Fiesta open to the public (local school events take place the day before [Albuquerque Aloft]) and is jam-packed with events. Just note that it will also likely be the busiest day of the event.

Sunday October 6th

5:45am – Drone Light Show 6:00am – Dawn Patrol 6:30am – Morning Glow 7:00am – Mass ascension 7:30am – Remote Control Balloons Exhibition (until 11:00am) 8:00am – Chainsaw carving begins (throughout morning and afternoon sessions) 9:00am – Classic Car Show (held on launch field between balloon launches) 10:00am – Chainsaw carving auction 11:00am – Balloon Fiesta Pin Trading (for those who collect the Fiesta pins) 5:00pm – Skydiving performance 6:00pm – Night Glow 7:30pm – Skydiving performance 7:45pm – Drone Light Show 8:00pm – Fireworks Show

Monday October 7th (New Mexico Day)

6:00am – Dawn Patrol 7:00am – Balloon Launch 8:00am – Competition Flying events take place on field throughout morning 8:00am – Chainsaw carving (throughout morning until noon)

*Monday is New Mexico day and anyone who is a legal resident of New Mexico is eligible for free admission. Residents just need to show a valid photo ID or utility bill with a New Mexico address at the entry gate for free admission. Just note that parking prices still apply.

Tuesday October 8th

6:00am – Dawn Patrol 7:00am – Balloon Launch 8:00am – Competition Flying events take place on field throughout morning 8:00am – Chainsaw carving (throughout morning)

Wednesday October 9th

6:00am – Dawn Patrol 6:30am – Morning Glow 7:00am – Flight of Nations Mass Ascension 7:30am – Remote Control Balloons Exhibition (until 11:00am) 8:00am – Chainsaw carving begin (throughout morning)

Thursday October 10th

6:00am – Dawn Patrol 7:00am – Special Shapes Balloon Launch 8:00am – Chainsaw carving  (throughout morning and afternoon sessions) 8:00am – Competition Flying events take place on field throughout morning 10:00am – Chainsaw carving auction 5:00pm – Skydiving performance 6:00pm – Special Shapes Night Glow 7:30pm – Skydiving performance 7:45pm – Drone Light Show 8:00pm – Fireworks Show

Friday October 11th (Kids’ Day)

4:30am – Kids’ Day Goodie Bags distribution begins (available all day at South of Main Street Stage) 6:00am – Dawn Patrol 7:00am – Special Shapes Balloon Launch 7:30am – Remote Control Balloons Exhibition (until 11:00am) 8:00am – Chainsaw carving (throughout morning and afternoon sessions) 8:00am – Competition Flying events take place on field throughout morning 10:00am – Chainsaw carving auction 5:00pm – Skydiving performance 6:00pm – Special Shapes Night Glow 7:30pm – Skydiving performance 7:45pm – Drone Light Show 8:00pm – Fireworks Show

*Children can pick up free goodie bags and there are special children’s events this day.

Saturday October 12th

5:45am – Drone Light Show 6:00am – Dawn Patrol 6:30am – Morning Glow 7:00am – Mass ascension 8:00am – Chainsaw carving begins (throughout morning and afternoon sessions) 10:00am – Chainsaw carving auction 11:00am – Balloon Fiesta Pin Trading 12:00pm – Seating opens for Music Fiesta 1:00pm – Music Fiesta begins (tickets needed to attend) 5:00pm – Skydiving performance 6:00pm – Night Glow 6:00pm – Remote Control Balloons Exhibition 7:30pm – Skydiving performance 7:45pm – Drone Light Show 8:00pm – Fireworks Show

Sunday October 15th

5:45am – Drone Light Show 6:00am – Dawn Patrol 6:30am – Morning Glow 7:00am – Mass ascension (final one of festival) 8:00am – Chainsaw carving (until 12pm)

What are the Best Days to attend the Balloon Fiesta?

There is generally no best day to attend the Balloon Fiesta, but the most popular event is the morning mass ascensions which generally take place on Saturday and Sunday mornings as well as on one of the weekday mornings.

In the evening, the Balloon Glows are beautiful and generally followed by some great fireworks.

Another popular favorite event is the Special Shapes Rodeo and balloonists generally attend the Flying Competition events where balloon pilots test their flying skills against other pilots. Be sure to buy Music Fiesta tickets in advance if you wish to attend that event.

You should look ahead at the schedule (available about a year in advance) to make your plans as different events take place each day. I would recommend planning to attend at least one morning session and one evening session as they are quite different in nature.

To avoid crowds, come on a weekday as they are much less crowded than weekends, and one day usually provides special activities for children and families. 

Oddly, we found many first-time visitors we talked to had little idea what events were happening when and just sort of assumed that all days were the same. Do a little research beforehand so you know what you are most interested in seeing!

How do I get to the Balloon Fiesta?

There are several ways to get to the Balloon Fiesta Park.

If you are traveling with a car, the best option for most visitors is to take the Park & Ride shuttle buses as these are easy, convenient, and include your admission into the park in the cost of the ticket.  However, there are several other options as well and all should work whether you are going in the morning sessions or evening sessions:

Driving to the Balloon Fiesta

There are large parking lots located in and around Balloon Fiesta Park for visitors and the cost (as of 2024) is $20 per vehicle per session. Parking is paid as you enter the park ( cash only ), and is first come, first serve.

If you are planning to attend a lot of sessions, you can purchase an all-session parking pass through the Balloon Fiesta Gift Shop in Albuquerque (call 1-888-422-7277) in advance. If you require special disabled parking or assistance, please contact the Balloon Fiesta staff in advance.

Note: The public parking lots often become completely filled on weekend mornings so plan to arrive early or take a shuttle bus to avoid not getting a parking space. Also traffic can be terrible in the morning and some visitors report waiting 2 hours in traffic to enter the park and end up missing part of the mass ascensions. Early is the key; we left where we were staying between 4:00am and 4:30am each morning and did not have any issues.

Park & Ride Shuttle Bus

Shuttles to Balloon Fiesta Park leave from several locations in the city where you can park your vehicle (or walk) and take the shuttle into the park. Then after the event you’ll get in a line for your shuttle return location and a shuttle will drop you back off.

This year there are two check-in times per session for those with Park & Ride tickets. The check in times will be: 4:00 am & 5:30 am for the morning sessions and 3:00 pm and 4:30 pm for the evening sessions.

Prices for the shuttle include your Balloon Fiesta Park admission ticket and they drop you off close to the field. In 2024, these prices were $25 for adults, $23 for Seniors, and $13 for children. Be sure to purchase at least 1 day in advance to save money. Same day prices are higher.

They must be purchased in advance either online here or in person at the Balloon Fiesta Gift Shop (4401 Alameda Blvd NE). Unlike in previous years, there will be no in person tickets sold on the day at the parking areas.

Note that it looks like many of the times and dates for the Park and Ride shuttles are likely to sell out in advance. So if there is a particular time and location you want, book it!

In 2024, there are 4 Park and Ride locations for the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta:

• Cottonwood Mall (10000 Coors Bypass NW)
• Coronado Center (6600 Menaul Blvd NE)
• Hoffmantown Church (8888 Harper Road NE)
• Intel: (1600 Rio Rancho Dr SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124) – WEEKENDS ONLY

Note:  The Park & Ride shuttles typically do NOT run on the less busy days of the Balloon Fiesta which are normally Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays so be sure to check in advance!

If you are planning to walk to the Park & Ride locations, we recommend that you consider staying in a hotel within walking distance of your chosen Park & Ride location. See our accommodation recommendations later in the article for some suggestions of lodging options within walking distance or a short driving distance from each of the locations.

Rail Runner & Shuttle Combo

* *NOTE: These did not run in 2018 or 2019 as in September 2018 New Mexico Rail Runner made an announcement that they were not going to run them for the 2018 event as they were not profitable. It is unlikely that this option will return for 2024 but I will update this if I learn anything new.**

In prior years, typically the weekends of the Balloon Fiesta, the New Mexico Rail Runner (local train) operated a special schedule where you could take the train to a specific station (usually the Los Ranchos/Journal Center stop) and a shuttle will meet you to take you to the park. This was a good option for those staying in Santa Fe or outside of central Albuquerque.

Taxi and Uber Rides

You can also book a Uber, Lyft, or taxi ride but be aware that they will be stuck in the same traffic as you would be so book in advance and head out early! Note that rates will be higher than normal during the Festival so be prepared for “surge pricing”.

In some years, companies have had special arrangements to use the Park & Ride shuttle lanes so they could get their quicker. However, this has not been the case in recent years. So if you plan to use a service, I’d check ahead to see if they have any special privileges as otherwise they will be slower than a Park & Ride Shuttle.

For the past few years, the designated drop off and pick up area for rideshare vehicles was south of the park and east of the intersection of Alameda Blvd. NE and Horizon Blvd. This is about a 15 minute walk to the park entrance.

Cycle to the Balloon Fiesta

  A healthy and free way to reach the park is to ride a bike. If you are staying nearby, this is a good option and there is a complimentary bicycle valet operating in the morning and the evening.

There are bike trails that run across much of Albuquerque and you can ride your bike to the Bike Valet point just off Balloon Museum Drive and a volunteer will tag your bike and store it in a safe location while you enjoy the Balloon Fiesta.  

If you don’t have your own bike, there are several bike rental shops and bike share programs in Albuquerque. Just note that you will most likely be riding to or from the park in the dark so you’ll need to have or rent a bike with headlights, reflectors, taillights, etc. to be able to drive safely in the early morning and evening hours.

Find more bike valet information  online.

RVing and Camping

The Albuquerque International Balloon is very popular for RVers and there are hundreds of spots available each year around the launch field. Spots range from dry tent camping spots to premium spots with great views next to the launch field and the highly-prized President’s Compound spots (bluff overlooking the launch field with good views & hook-ups).

The vast majority of RV spots are dry camping spots (no hookups), but porta-potties are free and readily available on-site and you have access to dump and water services for an additional fee from third-party folks who will come to your site.

RVing at the park allows you to walk, bike, or take a complimentary short shuttle ride to and from the launch field. Parking in the spots is first come, first serve. 

Current prices for RV spots range from $40 to $250 per night for spots. Those tent camping only can get spots for $35. Most RV prices do NOT include admission tickets to the Balloon Park. Find out the latest RV information and book your RV spot here .

Each year, the reservation bookings for RVs spots generally open the week after the last Balloon Fiesta. Spaces generally sell out fast, so be sure to reserve your spots as soon as you want to go! If spots are all sold out when you try to book, you can add your name to a wait list.

For the 2024 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, RV bookings will go on sale January 10th, 2024 at 9:00am Mountain Time .

Camping (Tent Provided)

For those who want to camp but don’t want to bring your own tent or camping essentials, then there is Camp 505. This is small campsite where 3-person tents are set up and each is equipped with 2 sleeping bags, 2 sleep pads, a blanket, camp light, and refillable water bottles.

The campsite is within walking distance of the field and the price includes access to shared portable toilets, a hospitality area, access to filtered water, a firepit, and parking.

I believe the temporary campsite was started in 2022. At last check, a 3-night stay for 2 guests is $800 at Camp 505. Each tent to hold up to 3 persons.

For the 2024 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, Camp 505 bookings will go on sale April 5, 2024 .

Special glamping tents that are set up in a tent village within walking distance of the balloon launching field. This began in 2018.

If you decide to go glamping, you’ll get a safari style tent, beds, linens, heating, lamps, free parking, and a welcome basket. Glampers have access to shared restroom and shower trailers, as well as an area with fire pit, grills, games, and lounge chairs.

These currently require a 3-night stay minimum and prices start at $1,600 for a 3 night stay for 2 people. Smaller tents can hold up to 2 people and larger ones can hold up to 4 persons. They are a bit pricey, but are a wonderful and unique way to experience the Balloon Fiesta.

For the 2024 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, glamping bookings will go on sale April 5, 2024 .

Walking is probably the best way to get to the park if you happen to be staying close to the park. This is a popular way for RVers and campers staying at an on-site spot. But not so feasible for most people. 

Just be careful as the roads will be very busy!

Hotel Shuttles

A few hotels and casinos will also have their own private shuttles taking their guests to and from Balloon Fiesta Park. For instance Sandia Resort & Casino  normally has a shuttle for the morning and evening sessions each day.

So be sure to ask your hotel just in case they do. Hotel shuttles normally have a small fee and require advanced booking. 

Guided Tours to Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

There are a few guided tours that include a visit to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. The main one is this 5 day tour which includes 3 days in Albuquerque during the Balloon Fiesta and a day in Santa Fe.

If you don’t want to make your own arrangements or are traveling by yourself, this can be a good option.

Parking Tips for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

As noted above, arrive as early as possible if you plan to drive. Depending on where you are staying in Albuquerque, we’d recommend leaving between 4:00am and 4:30am on mass ascension mornings. 5:00am at the latest. Traffic will be a lot heavier and some lanes and exits will be closed so expect it to take much longer than predicted to get to the field and park.

Be sure to closely follow signs as you approach the Park as if you get in the wrong lane, it can waste a lot of time trying to backtrack. Then once inside the Park, parking volunteers will wave you in the right direction to get you parked. Parking is first come, first serve so the earlier you get there the better your chances of getting a spot closer to the field.

Bring cash to pay for your parking. It is $20 per vehicle (as of 2022) per session.

If you come too late, you may not get a spot at all as the lots do sometimes fill completely. If you can’t get there early, we recommend considering the Park & Ride option, especially during morning weekend sessions as these are the busiest days of the Balloon Fiesta. 

How Early should I arrive for the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta? 

No matter how you are getting to the park, with the exception of walking, be sure to arrive early!  For morning sessions, the park generally opens at 4:30am and we’d advise trying to be inside the park by 5:30am (events begin around 6:00am most mornings). But really the closer to 4:30am the better. It will be busy, especially on weekends, and you do not want to risk waiting in traffic or in a line and miss some of the events.

The parking lots do fill up, especially on weekends, and if you are heading to the park late you risk not getting a spot at all. A couple of visitors recently told us that last year they left late to get to the Balloon Fiesta morning mass ascension and the parking lots were already full so they were stuck in traffic for 2 hours and they missed it. Don’t be these people!

The evening sessions are not normally as crowded normally as the morning sessions, but generally it is advised to be at the park about 2 hours before the evening events begin to avoid heavy traffic,

On one evening, we got there and parked about an hour before the Balloon Glow started and the traffic was heavy but there was still plenty of parking available. However, better to be safe than sorry and it is more enjoyable to be in the Park walking around and eating than sitting in traffic!

How do I Purchase Balloon Fiesta Admission Tickets?

Admission tickets are $15 per person, per session. There is both a morning and evening session on most days, so if you leave the park after the morning session, you’ll have to pay again to enter in the evening.

Entry is free for children under the age of 12.

Tickets can be purchased in advance online , by phone (1-855-725-1824) , in person at the Balloon Fiesta Gift Shop, or in person at the entrance to the park.

Note that your admission costs are already included if you ride the Park & Ride shuttle bus. So don’t buy both!

Tickets for the 2024 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta are scheduled to go on sale on April 5, 2024.

A lot of people ask us how far in advance they need to book their admission tickets. The truth is that you don’t need to book them in advance as they are available to purchase at ticket kiosks before you enter the security area to enter the park. As far as I am aware, they never sell out. But you can certainly buy them in advance!

However, if there is a special ticketed event happening during the Balloon Fiesta, such as Music Fiesta (a special concert), these tickets are sold separately and you will want to book these in advance. See website for pricing and schedules. 

Are there upgraded or VIP Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta experiences available? 

Yes, there are a few upgraded Balloon Fiesta options. These include getting tickets to the Chasers’ Club or Gondola Club, attending an evening at the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque Balloon Museum, or booking a session with the Balloon Fiesta Concierge Service.

Just note if you are interested in any of these upgraded experiences, book them well in advance. All of them usually sell out well before the fiesta starts.

What is the Chaser’s Club?

The Chasers’ Club  gives ticket holders access to a dedicated view area, hot buffet meals, seating area, toilets, beverage services, and a cash bar. Ticket are sold for each session and prices includes Balloon Fiesta admission.

Tickets for the 2024 Chasers’ Club are scheduled to go on sale on April 5, 2024 at 9:00am Mountain Time.

What is the Gondola Club?

The   Gondola Club  includes the same perks as the Chasers’ Club (e.g., dedicated viewing area, seating, hot meals) as well as additional ones. This is a more upgraded experience. Check the latest information but tickets to the Gondola Club also normally include parking passes, an open bar, cocktail, private toilets, music, shuttle service, and a souvenir gift.

Gondola Club ticktets for the 2024 Fiesta are scheduled to go on sale on April 5, 2024 at 9am Mountain Time.

What is the Concierge Service at the Balloon Fiesta?

The Balloon Fiesta Concierge Program was started in 2018. It includes your general admission tickets, a premium parking pass, a private golf cart and driver for the duration of the session, a visit to the main tents and the Balloon Museum, and a basket full of goodies to take back home.

This may be especially useful for those with limited mobility.

What are the Albuquerque Balloon Museum Balloon Fiesta Events?

You can also get tickets to some of the great events held at the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque Balloon Museum during the Balloon Fiesta which has a viewing gallery and balconies that looks onto the Launch Field and a dedicated parking lot.

Past events have included catered breakfasts held during the morning mass ascensions, dinner during the evening balloon glows, wine and painting events, and events designed for children and families. The Albuquerque Balloon Museum is just south and adjacent to the launch field.

What is the Balloon Discovery Center Tent?

This large tent is an educational tent that includes information on hot air ballooning as well as a number of other related things. A great place to pop into and learn a bit more about balloons and there are also family-friendly exhibits.

On our last visit it had several children’s activities related to hot air balloons and flight as well as booths related to ham radios, airplanes, NASA, local business, and more. It is free to visit.

What about food & drink at the Balloon Fiesta?

There are plenty of vendors selling all kinds of food and drinks with an emphasis on hamburgers, burritos, hot dogs, pizza, nachos, and donuts.There are also lots of hot drinks like coffee and hot chocolate available which are very welcome in the early morning.

It is said that the first breakfast burritos were first sold at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta in the 1970’s. Whether it is true or not is hard to know, but the breakfast burrito is sort of the unofficial morning food for festival goers and a good time to try green and or red chiles if you have not done so already. 

If this is your first time in Albuquerque, I’d recommend trying a breakfast burrito and the local piñon coffee. If you are looking for burgers, Blake’s Lottaburger is an Albuquerque hamburger chain that normally has a stand and makes good chili cheeseburgers.

Toilets at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta?

There are hundreds of port-a-potties placed around the Balloon Park that are free for guests to use. We never had a hard time finding one, although lines can be long at peak times.

If the bathrooms are busy (or you want to try to find the cleanest ones), consult a map and head towards the ones furthest away from the entrances and Main Street (towards 2nd Street). These are typically much less used and have shorter lines than those just off the Main Street and around the concession stands.

If you don’t like the idea of standing in line to use a port-a-potty, consider an upgraded experience by getting a ticket to the Chasers’ Club or Gondola Club which have dedicated toilets. Or consider a ticket to one of the Balloon Museum events where you have full access to the museum’s restroom facilities.

Are dogs allowed at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta?

No, dogs are not allowed within Balloon Fiesta Park with the exception of service dogs. No pets are allowed within the park during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

Is the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Accessible for those in Wheelchairs?

The event is able to accommodate many people with reduced mobility and those using wheelchairs or scooters. There is hard-surface disabled parking near the entrance gates that is the same price as the regular parking fee. There are also courtesy shuttles you can use to get from the parking lots to the entrance.

Visitors can also rent mobility scooters and wheelchairs within the park, near the Information Desk. These are on a first-come, first-serve basis, so if this is a necessity, I’d make advanced reservations.

The main street area where the food and concession stands are located is asphalt and packed dirt, but the balloon launching field is primarily grass and can be uneven.

For accessible toilets, I’d check at the Information Booth for where these are located. Most toilets at the event are not wheelchair accessible.

If you or someone you are traveling with has a lot of needs in terms of mobility or otherwise, you might consider booking a session with the Concierge Service . It includes a personal guide and golf cart transportation during the event.

Balloon Fiesta Souvenirs, Pins, & Balloon Trading Cards? 

Every year, new official Balloon Fiesta merchandise is made and sold at the festival. The most popular item associated with the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta are the collectible lapel pins and many people collect the new pins each year. These pins include official event pins, commemorative pins, special events pins, individual balloon pins, race pins, etc.

There is even a scheduled Trading session held each year for those who collect the pins to meet up and trade their pins during the Fiesta. You can buy the latest pins at the Fiesta at any of the tents selling official Balloon Fiesta merchandise, but the quantities are limited each year.

You can also buy some of the official  merchandise online at any time. There is also tons of other official and unofficial merchandise from sweatshirts to earrings to posters sold at the festival.

I love travel themed jewelry and bought a pair of earrings at my very first Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta in 2009. Since then I have purchased other hot air balloon related jewelry here and there.

You may also see or hear people talking about Balloon Cards which are paper cards that include a photo of each individual balloon, the name of the balloon, pilot, and information about the annual balloon fiesta. A number of local kids go around collecting these cards from pilots. Pilots generally carry some on them each year and will hand them out to people who ask, and you can sometimes buy packs of them in the booths.

Tips for Booking Accommodation during Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta?

The two weeks in October around the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta are the busiest and most expensive time to be visiting Albuquerque. Hotel prices and RV rates double and even triple during the Balloon Fiesta. Prices for rental cars, flights, etc. are also going to be higher than normal.

We were in Albuquerque a month before the Balloon Fiesta and the hotel rooms more than doubled in price on our return and the cost of a rental car had almost tripled in price per day. No matter what you do, you’ll likely end up paying a bit more than usual although luckily Albuquerque is not normally an expensive city.

Albuquerque offers a wide range of lodging options, including classic motels, vacation rentals , bed-and-breakfasts, luxury hotels, hostels, and RV campgrounds.

Compare hotel prices and book early for best prices and to guarantee getting the date and places you want. We usually search for and book hotels in Albuquerque on either Booking.com or Hotels.com .

Be sure to consider the distance from where you will be staying from either the Balloon Fiesta Park or the nearest Park and Ride parking lot, and how you plan to get to the event.

If you need to book more last minute and are not having luck finding anything, don’t despair! Think about lodging alternatives to what you have tried (sleeping in a hostel, apartment, or motel – more ideas for lodging alternatives here ).

You can also consider options just outside Albuquerque. Rio Rancho, Corrales, and even Bernallio are communities adjacent to Albuquerque and near the Balloon Fiesta. Often if the balloons head north, they land in these cities.

Where to Stay during the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta? 

As noted, you have a lot of options from classic Route 66 era motels to brand-new luxury hotels. You have hundreds of options, but we’ll provide some guidance and recommendations. We’ll list places near the Fiesta Park, near the Park & Ride locations, and then a range of other options in Albuquerque.

Hotels near the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Park 

If you are planning to drive, take a taxi, or take a hotel shuttle (if offered), you may want to stay near the Fiesta Park where the festival takes place. Lodging options within a few miles of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Park:

• Sandia Resort & Casino – This 4-star hotel is part of a popular casino resort. It has several restaurants and bars, a pool, a golf course, and a spa. During the Balloon Fiesta, the hotel normally offers shuttles for guests to get to and from the Park. Be sure to check to see what packages they are offering. About a 4.5 miles drive from park
• Courtyard by Marriott – Well-rated 3-star hotel with swimming pool, bistro, bar, and fitness center. About a 3 mile drive from park.
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites – Basic chain hotel with an indoor pool, fitness center, and buffet breakfast. About a 2 mile drive from park. This is one of the closest hotels to the Balloon Fiesta Park.
• Comfort Inn & Suites – Chain motel with an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, and free breakfast. About a 2.5 miles drive from park.

For more lodging options near the Balloon Fiesta see this list and this list . You can sort these lists by distance from the Balloon Fiesta Park and by budget.

Hotels near the Albuquerque Park & Ride Locations 

If you are planning to use the Park & Ride services to get to and from the Balloon Fiesta, you may want to stay near the Park & Ride location. If you don’t have a car, you’ll probably want to try to stay within walking distance if possible.

Below are lodging options located near each of the three main 2024 Albuquerque Park & Ride Locations:

Cottonwood Shopping Mall Park & Ride

• This Extended Stay America hotel is about a 6 minute drive or 30 minute walk from the Cottonwood Shopping Mall parking lot.
• The Inn at Paradise is about a 9 mile drive away from the shopping mall. It would take about 1 hour to walk to the parking lot so not a good option for those without a car.

Coronado Center Park & Ride

• The Sheraton Uptown Hotel is located just a short 7 minute walk or a 2 minute drive from the Coronado Center.
• This Homewood Suites is located about a 8 minute walk or a 3 minute drive from the Coronado Park & Ride location.
• This Hyatt Place Uptown is located about a 7 minute walk or a 3 minute drive from the Coronado Park & Ride location.
• The Hilton Garden Inn Uptown is located a 10 minute walk or a 3 minute drive from the Coronado Center.
• The Marriott Albuquerque is about a 11 minute walk or a 2 minute drive from the Coronado Center.

Hoffmantown Church Park & Ride

• This La Quinta Inn & Suites is about an 8 minute drive or 50 minute walk from the Hoffmantown Church Park & Ride location.
• This Hilton Garden Inn is about a 10 minute drive or 50 minute walk from the Hoffmantown Church.
• The Nativo Lodge is about a 10 minute drive or 55 minute walk from the Hoffmantown Church Park & Ride location.

Note: All the above walking and driving times are approximate. Driving times are estimated in good traffic conditions, so you’ll want to leave a bit more time due to Fiesta traffic to reach Park & Ride locations on time.

Other Accommodation Options in Albuquerque

Here are a number of other recommended accommodation options throughout Albuquerque that range across budgets and travel styles:

• Hotel Parq Central  – This modern 4-star hotel is located in a  historic 1926 building that was originally a Santa Fe Railroad hospital for railway workers and later a psychiatric ward! The decor is a mix of modern and vintage and its Apothecary Lounge rooftop bar is a popular place for cocktails for locals and visitors alike.
• El Vado  Motel   – This classic court motel was built in the Spanish Pueblo Revival style in 1937 and is one of Albuquerque’s most famous surviving Route 66 era motels. Has a beautiful classic neon sign out front. Restored and reopened in 2018.
• Monterey Non-Smokers Motel – This Route 66 era motel opened in 1946 and continues to offer good value budget lodging in a central location that is within walking distance of Old Town attractions. Great neon sign out front. Next door to above El Vado.
• Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm – This is a beautiful 4-star historic boutique inn offering both guest rooms in both the main hacienda and elsewhere on the farm. Many rooms have patios. The inn sits on a historic farm and has a great restaurant and farm shop. Located in a peaceful spot just outside central Albuquerque in Los Ranchos.
• Bottger Mansion  – If you are looking for a historic and romantic B&B, we’d recommend this one. The house was build around 1912 and later become a popular boarding house, even Elvis Presley slept here. 
• Hotel Chaco – One of the city’s newest 4-star hotels, this hotel is best known for its architecture which is influenced by the ancient pueblo culture and Chaco Canyon. Includes restaurant, café, bar, and fitness center.
• Hotel Andaluz  (125 2nd Street NW) – This 4-star luxury hotel is located just off Central Avenue and occupies the historic 1939 building that was originally built as the Hilton Hotel. The Hilton Hotel was the first property in New Mexico built by famous hotelier and New Mexico-born Conrad Hilton. Hotel Andaluz is a modern hotel with New Mexican and Mexican influenced decor.
• Hiway House Motel  – This 2-star 1958 Hiway House Motel was once one of many of the Hiway chain motels and now one of only a handful. It has a neon sign and colonial-style architecture. Budget option.
• Motel 6 Albuquerque South – A no-frills budget chain motel. If you are on a tight budget, this place gets decent reviews and has some of the lowest prices in the city.
• Camping & RV Recommendations : If you can’t get a spot within the Balloon Fiesta Park, some other options include:   Enchanted Trails RV Park ,  Albuquerque KOA, and  Route 66 RV Resort  (located about 20 minutes west of Albuquerque).

How do I know if the Fiesta is going to be cancelled due to Weather?

The hot air balloons are highly weather dependent and will not go up if conditions related to the wind, clouds, rain, or visibility are not right. The evening balloon glows and fireworks also are weather-dependent but have fewer restrictions.

Weather is perhaps the most frustrating thing about Balloon Fiesta, even more so than the traffic, as you may get up at 4am and be at the park by 5:00 and then learn at 7:00am that the event is cancelled for that morning.

Generally the balloon pilots learn around 6:30am at the Pilot Briefing if there will be a weather delay or cancellation. Delays can last for a couple of hours and you won’t be sure if they are going to go up or not.

They will periodically make announcements on the field, but a couple of other good places to learn about the latest Balloon Fiesta launch info is Albuquerque’s TV station KOB channel 4 ,  KKOB 770 AM Radio , and the Balloon Fiesta official Twitter account .

Note that in some cases, pilots may be told they can launch at their own discretion and some will decide to go and others will not. Generally in these cases, pilots carrying passengers will often not go given they have the safety of the passengers to consider as well as themselves.

Cancellations due to weather happen each year and the number of cancellations and delays vary each year so they are fairly impossible to predict in advance, but if you go to the Balloon Fiesta with this knowledge, then you’ll be prepared to return another day. I would check the weather forecast and try to plan to go on days when sun and clear skies are predicted.

What happens if a Balloon Fiesta event is canceled due to weather? 

Normally if an event is canceled, the Balloon Fiesta Park will stay open unless the weather is hazardous and some balloons may even inflate but not take off. The concession stands and tents will also stay open.

Generally, with the admission tickets and upgraded experience tickets, you can not get a refund. However, you can re-use your admission ticket for the next session or the next day. It is therefore important to keep hold of all your tickets in case an event is canceled.

Generally with Park & Ride tickets, if you keep your ticket for a canceled event you get a discounted rate to ride for another session and free admission for the next session or day. 

Be sure to check the latest rain check policy when you purchase your tickets.

What Happens if the Albuquerque Balloon Festival is Canceled Due to COVID-19?

The 2020 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic; however, the 2021, 2022, and 2023 events took place as scheduled.

We feel it is extremely unlikely the 2024 event would be canceled due to COVID-19, but it is of course a possibility that it could be cancelled for COVID or another reason. Below is how the Balloon Fiesta handled the 2020 event cancelation to give you an idea of what to suspect IF the 2024 event was canceled or postponed.

If you purchased admission tickets, parking passes, Park & Ride tickets, RV spots, or other services for the canceled 2020 event, you could change the reservation date to use at the 2021 or request a full refund.

According to the website: “tickets purchased for the 2020 event may be refunded, including any service fees associated with their purchase, or applied to the 2021 Balloon Fiesta at the purchaser’s option.”

Those who purchased a ticket or make a reservation online should receive an email with how to change their reservation date or obtain a refund. If not, you will want to contact the festival staff directly.

Can I Ride in a Hot Air Balloon during the Balloon Fiesta?

Yes! You can pay to ride in a hot air balloon during the Balloon Fiesta. Rainbow Ryders is the only hot air balloon company that is permitted to take guests and launch during a mass ascension from the Balloon Fiesta Park.

We have not personally ridden with Rainbow Ryders but they are a long-standing company with a great reputation and safety record which is why they have been chosen as the official balloon operator of the Balloon Fiesta.

However, note that the experience of going up during the Balloon Fiesta is expensive and their normal rates double or triple during the festival. Normal rates are about $149 per person the rest of the year, but rates last year during the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta were about $429/person for a group ride and up to $750/person for a private ride with less than 4 persons.

For many people, being able to go up in a balloon during a mass ascension with hundreds of other balloons is a once in a lifetime experience worth splurging on! Be sure to book well in advance to get the dates you want.

If the above prices are out of your budget, but you really want to ride in a hot air balloon during Balloon Fiesta, consider booking with another hot air balloon company during the Balloon Fiesta. Several other companies provide balloon flights in Albuquerque (as well as Santa Fe) and will generally offer lower rates (although still much higher than normal). Companies include  Viator,   Air Carriage LLC , APEX Balloons , and  World Balloon .

While these companies can launch their balloons in the city at the same time as the Balloon Fiesta, they are NOT allowed to launch from Balloon Fiesta Park. This means you will not get quite as close to the other balloons, but you should still see the other balloons in the air. 

For lower prices, consider booking a balloon flight before or after the Balloon Fiesta when prices return to the normal rates. For example, you can book flights here year round for hot air ballooning in Albuquerque.

During most of the year, hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque range from about $140 to $200/person for a group flight. In addition to companies, you may also come across individual pilots offering private balloon flights if they have their own balloon, just note that the pilot needs to have a commercial balloon license (versus a private one) to take paying customers. You may not get to see hundreds of balloons in the sky, but you could save hundreds of dollars and you still get the same city and mountain views without the traffic!

No matter when or where you choose to fly, be sure to spend some time researching and comparing companies on pricing, length of flight, number of passengers, inclusions (e.g., glass of champagne or breakfast), what other customers have said (e.g., positive reviews), and their safety record.

You’ll also want to inquire about their refund policy if there is a weather related cancellation which happens fairly often. Balloons will only go up when weather conditions are safe to do so, and those carrying customers are going to obviously need to be cautious. If your flight is cancelled, you need to know if you will receive a full or partial refund or do you get a rain check voucher and option to go on another flight (if so, when?)?

If you plan to ride during Balloon Fiesta and you book to go on a mass ascension morning, be sure to know what happens if that flight is cancelled and you have to reschedule to a day there is no Balloon Fiesta event, do you get some of your money back? Know what you are buying and what happens in the event of a cancellation.

Given that flights are weather dependent, it is generally NOT a good idea to book a hot air balloon flight on your final (or only) day in Albuquerque as you won’t have the chance to reschedule in the event of bad weather.

Can I volunteer during the Balloon Fiesta?

Yes! Every year a few thousand volunteers are needed in addition to a small team of professional full-time staff to help with the event. These include people needed to help with parking, managing the RV lots, taking registrations, mailing posters, directing traffic, and even being members of the balloon chase crews.

In addition to helping with the success and safety of the event, volunteers also get a number of advantages such as free parking and admission throughout the event, access to complimentary meals and snacks, and Balloon Fiesta goodies. If you volunteer and are coming from out of town, you may also be eligible for discounted hotel rates.

To quality as a volunteer, you need to be available the entire length of the Balloon Fiesta, do a short training, and be willing to do at least three shifts. You can find out more and sign up to volunteer online .

Is there anything about hot air ballooning I should know?

We highly recommend visiting the  Andersen Abruzzo International Balloon Museum  before the event if you have time. It is a great museum and will give you a good understanding of the history of ballooning, how hot air balloons work, and the history of the balloon fiesta. There’s also a film and lots of a number of interactive exhibits.

There are a few new terms you’ll likely hear about when you attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Here are a few explained:

• Zebras  is the nickname for the launching officials on the field dressed in black and white. You may see some of them in some strange outfits! These folks are volunteers and help ensure that launches are coordinated safely and efficiently.
• The Albuquerque Box or The Box  is a weather phenomenon where the lowest winds are moving in one direction and the higher level winds are moving in another. So in a perfect example of the Albuquerque Box, the high winds are from the south while the low winds are from the north. This is beneficial to ballooning because then the balloon can take off and land in almost exactly the same spot. Albuquerque is an ideal place for this phenomenon in October although it is still fairly uncommon to see it in its perfect form. Keep an eye out for it!
• Gondolas are another name for the balloon baskets, often made of wicker or rattan.
• An  Envelope  is the name for the fabric balloon part of a hot air balloon, typically made of nylon.

If you come across other words or terms you are not familiar with, just ask someone! Staff and crew members are generally more than willing to explain ballooning stuff to newcomers.

Can I see the Balloons from outside Balloon Fiesta Park?

Yes, you have a good chance of seeing them from many spots all over the city as the majority of the balloons will leave from the Balloon Fiesta Park but land outside of it. I used to see them floating along on my way to work when I lived in Albuquerque. The most magical sights are probably from in and around the Balloon Fiesta Park but you can still see them all over the city.

Many people, especially locals who have already been to the Balloon Fiesta, will avoid the crowds at the Park and just head to a spot in the city (or just sit in their backyard) where they can comfortably watch them and hopefully see a few land as well. The problem with this is that it depends on the winds where the balloons will go and land, so you won’t know which way they are heading until several are up in the air and then even then winds sometimes change direction.

We had fun watching them fly over and land one morning in the Corrales and Rio Rancho area where we were staying which is a preferred area for many balloonists as there are fewer people and more landing spots, but even that day some of the balloons went in the complete opposite direction. We were very lucky as we were with local fellow blogger Leslie who knows the area very well and she knew some great spots once we figured out where the balloons were headed.

People watch from spots all over the city, in nearby communities like Corrales, along the river, and even from Sandia Peak (although they are going to be very far away).

The best advice I would have is to ask around about preferred viewing and landing spots near where you are going to be and head there in the morning, and then have a back-up place to go if the balloons head in the opposite direction. Just be sure not to park on or alongside roads as you’ll likely get a ticket, and be sure to stay out of locals’ driveways.

I would advise this plan for those who have already seen the balloons from the park or for those who absolutely hate crowds. Seeing the balloons up close and together is really, in my opinion, the highlight of Balloon Fiesta and from inside the Park is the single best way to do this.

How do I Find Out More Information?

The best place for information about the event is to check out the very comprehensive Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta official website , which provides the full schedule, allows you to purchase tickets in advance, gives information on how to get there, sells Balloon Merchandise, etc.

You can also contact the Balloon Fiesta team directly by calling them at +1 (505) 821-1000 or toll-free at 1-888-422-7277 or email them with general questions at [email protected]. Once you know when you are coming for Balloon Fiesta, I would then head to the Visit Albuquerque website to help plan the rest of your time in the city.

Some Tips for Making the Most of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

• If you want to go, start planning and booking early! Albuquerque is not an expensive place by any means, but this is the most popular time to visit the city and things do fill up and rates are at their peak during this time of the year. So if you really want an RV spot or to stay in a particular hotel, you should book sooner rather than later. Same with flights and rental cars. If there is a single rule of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, it is to try to BOOK EARLY!

• Some visitors plan a trip for just a couple of days, don’t do this. Most of the events are very weather dependent and the events can be cancelled for more than a day in a row depending on wind, storms, etc. Don’t come all this way to be disappointed by weather cancellations. Besides, there are several different types of events at the fiesta and there are lots of other fun things to do in Albuquerque and things to do in Santa Fe .

• Show up as early as you can for the events. Gates generally open around 4:30 for the morning events and 3:30pm for the evening events. Come as early as possible as it’ll be less crowded and you won’t have to worry about missing the first balloons take off. People often underestimate the amount of time it will take to get to and into the Park.

• Weekends are much busier than weekdays so plan accordingly. It is wise to use Park and Ride services on weekends rather than trying to drive and park yourself. Note that Park and Ride tickets now need to be booked online and may sell out in advance.

• Save money by purchasing the Park & Ride tickets in advance, and you can also save time in line by buying admission tickets in advance. But be sure to take a look at the “rain check” policy for any tickets you buy.

• There are several different types of events of interest (Special Shapes Rodeo, America’s Challenge, Glow Balloons, etc.), but don’t miss seeing one of the mass ascensions where hundreds of balloons go up at once in the early morning. If you go to just one event, make it that one.

• Bring a jacket and dress in layers. It is generally chilly in the mornings and late evenings and you’ll want a light coat and perhaps a hat. We both wore layers, light coats, and hats in the morning and enjoyed cups of hot cocoa and coffee at the beginning of the morning mass ascension. However, we noticed lots of not well-prepared visitors who apparently thought Albuquerque was a year-round hot destination, don’t be one of these people!

• Note that seating is very limited within the Fiesta Park. There are a few benches and picnic tables on and along the field but these are often occupied. Most people stand for the event, but if you or someone you are traveling with will need to sit, consider bringing a folding lawn chair, blanket, or mobility scooter. 

• You can bring folding lawn chairs, coolers, strollers, blankets, umbrellas, food, etc. although they will be inspected by security upon entry. Glass, weapons, and alcohol are NOT permitted in the park. Do check the latest guidelines if you plan to bring along larger items as security rules do change. 

• If you are planning to bring a lot of stuff with you, note that many people spend a lot of their time walking around the launch field to see the different balloons and then walking along Main Street where all the vendors are located. With the crowds it can be annoying to lug around a lot of stuff so only bring things you know you’ll use.

• Within the parking areas, RV parks, and launch field area are free courtesy shuttles that are available to help transport people around the Park. So if you have mobility issues or just get tired you can use these to get from place to place.

• Pets are not allowed in the Park although service animals are of course welcome. Please keep any animals away from the balloons as they can tear the fragile envelopes of the balloons.

• Smoking is not allowed in the Park during the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. This is mainly for safety reasons as a lit cigarette can ignite the balloon’s propane tanks and stray ashes can burn or melt the balloon envelopes! Please keep any cigarettes at home or in your car. 

• One of the special things about the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is that you get so close to the hot air balloons and can chat with the crews and see them set up and launch. Just be sure not to walk on or touch the envelope (the nylon balloon part) as the fabric can be easily torn and is very expensive to fix or replace. Be especially mindful of children as they can get hurt or burnt and follow all instructions by the crew and the officials dressed in black in white (affectionately called zebras) so that balloons can safely launch. 

• Bring your camera, extra batteries or charger, and lots of memory cards or film. You’ll be taking lots of pictures! Best times for photos are generally at and around sunrise and sunset so you get the best light, but it is honestly difficult not to take some beautiful photos at this event!

• If you have more time than money, you might consider volunteering at the Balloon Fiesta. Those who volunteer not only get an inside scoop on the festival but they also get free entrance tickets, parking passes, and free meals during the Balloon Fiesta. You may also get discounted hotel rates. If this sounds appealing, read the earlier section on volunteering.

• Make time to visit the Andersen Abruzzo International Balloon Museum which is located near the launch field. It is a great place to spend some time in between events or before the beginning of the Balloon Fiesta to learn more about hot air ballooning. For instance did you know the first hot air balloon passengers were a duck, a sheep, and a rooster?! There are also a few hands-on exhibits to help you better understand the mechanics of hot air ballooning.  

• October is a busy time in Albuquerque so in addition to making your travel plans well in advance, it is a good idea to think about what you want to do in the city before you arrive as all the main attractions and museums will be busier than usual, especially in the afternoons before and after Balloon Fiesta events. Some of the busiest places will likely be the Sandia Peak Tramway , Sandia Crest, Old Town area, Nob Hill area, ABQ BioPark  (zoo, aquarium, botanic garden, Tingley Beach), Petroglyph National Monument , and the city’s museums. I would consider visiting these places near opening or closing times to avoid crowds and ensure the shortest lines. Also if there are nicer restaurants you would like to go for dinner, consider making a reservation to guarantee a table. Even places within an hour or two of the city such as the Turquoise Trail stops, Tent Rocks , and Santa Fe are also going to be much busier than usual. Santa Fe’s lodging prices also rise during Balloon Fiesta. For more ideas on visiting Albuquerque, see our post on things to do in Albuquerque , and where to eat in Albuquerque .

• October not only brings the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, but it also means the end of the New Mexico chili growing season. You’ll likely run across them being roasted somewhere in the city. So it is a great time to try some New Mexican cuisine with the last of the fresh chilies. If you’ve never had them, try them! I especially love them on burritos (any kind), in green chili chicken stew, and on burgers. There is green chile and red chile, and if you want some of both ask for it “Christmas style”. 

Our Experience of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

As I said earlier, I have been fortunate to have been able to attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta three times, the first time while I was living in the city in 2009, then again in 2016 with Laurence, and again in 2018 with family. So I’ve been lucky to attend all the different events offered at the festival.

We seem to also just be attracted to hot air balloons as we’ve also helped crew for hot air balloons at other balloon fiestas elsewhere in New Mexico (there are several smaller festivals and invitationals). We’ve also attended several other international hot air ballooning events including the Bristol Balloon Fiesta in England , the Grand Est Mondial Air Ballon hot air balloon festival in France , and the Festival International de Ballons in Switzerland . 

The first time I attended the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta in 2009 I attended with my former boyfriend Ethan when we were both living in Albuquerque at that time. I was not covering it as a travel blogger then, I was simply just enjoying it like everyone else!

That was such a wonderful experience, that I convinced Laurence that we needed to return in 2016. We attended as Media which meant that we got free admission, parking, and access to a Media Tent. It also allowed us the opportunity to be put on a list to potentially go up in a balloon during the Balloon Fiesta and we were very lucky to have gotten that chance!

Then again we came back with my parents and younger brother and attended again in 2018. We stayed mostly on the field rather than going to the Media areas. We had a great time yet again!

Morning Mass Ascensions at Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Mass ascensions are generally the highlight for most people who attend the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, but they require getting up very early! The night before my very first morning mass ascension in 2009, I went to bed early and then woke up at 4am. Ethan (an ABQ native and my then boyfriend) was not a happy camper and as a local did not understand my strong excitement about attending the balloon fiesta.

You’ll find that locals like to complain about the Balloon Fiesta and the crowds, increased traffic, and blocked roads. However, they almost all seem to greatly enjoy seeing the balloons and take pride that the event is hosted in their home city. Not to mention the huge economic impact of the event on the local economy!  

In 2009, we were on the West side of Albuquerque and had pre-purchased Park & Ride tickets for the shuttles leaving from the Cottonwood Mall. There was plenty of parking and we were put on the second shuttle of the morning. We highly recommend this as an option for anyone near a Park & Ride location.

In 2016 and 2018, we had a regular parking pass given to us as Media and we could not use it for Park & Ride so we drove ourselves and ended up just making sure to try to be at the parking lots by around 5:00am each morning. 

Once we got there, there was not too much to see so we walked around in terms of balloon action so we ate breakfast burritos, and nursed cups of steaming hot cocoa and coffee. Along the so-called Main Street are a number of concessions selling food, drinks, and souvenirs.

It was chilly and windy and the Dawn Patrol event did not take place that morning in 2009 because of the winds. We were fearful the mass ascension would not happen either. Luckily, the weather cleared and the balloonists soon started filling their balloons and getting ready.

You get to walk around the field and get right next to the balloons, see them being filled and fired, and watch as they take off. Some crew members are chatting and happy to chat, while others are preoccupied and busy with preparations. The balloons during mass ascensions launch in waves, typically two, so different balloons will be in various states of being unpacked, inflated, and launched for about 2 hours.

Generally the first thing you’ll see is a few balloons headed off as part of the Dawn Patrol if you are there around 6:00am. Then just before the balloons start launching closer to 7:00am, someone will sing the National Anthem and everyone will briefly pause for this and then resume the festivities.

During our two mornings in 2016, they also had a morning Balloon Glow where about a dozen inflated balloons lined up in a row and pilots used their propane burners to light up their balloons while still tethered to the ground. After the Morning Glow, these balloons then wait to go off with the other balloons at sunrise.

It was so exciting to see the first balloon take off during my first mass ascension and almost as equally exciting the second and third times! The next 2 hours were filled with hundreds of balloons taking off in a sort of organized chaos. During this time you can wander around the field taking photos and watching the balloons go up.

Several go up at a time over the course of approximately 2 hours and the sky is then literally filled with hundreds of hot air balloons of all colors, shapes, and sizes!!

I’ll let the pictures fill in the rest as there are really no words that can aptly describe it. Note these photos are a random collection of photos we took at the 2009, 2016, and and 2018 events.

Riding in a Balloon during a Mass Ascension

Laurence and I were lucky enough to be able to be able to ride in a hot air balloon during a morning mass ascension during the 2016 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Each morning, a small number of pilots agree (in return for a fee) to take up members of the press and media so they can get photos, shoot video, and gain information for news stories.

Laurence and I were lucky enough to go up with experienced pilot Frank Hunter in his balloon Aimless Drifter. It was just the two of us and the pilot and it was a great experience taking off from the landing field with hundreds of other balloons that morning. The views from above the field are absolutely stunning and we were able to get some great photos!

Normally when you go for a hot air balloon ride, there are only a couple other balloons (if any) in the sky with you and it really is a great experience and photographic opportunity to be able to see so many other balloons in the sky during the fiesta!

Our ride only lasted about 30 minutes as Frank was keen to try to get a landing spot as we were drifting in a less than ideal direction where there are fewer landing spots than if we had gone north. Normally though if you are paying for a ride (which we were not), the rides last at least 1 hour, sometimes 2 hours, depending on the company.

Once Frank landed us safely, the balloon chase crew arrived and help deflate and pack away the balloon. We helped with this which took about 30 or 40 minutes and then we were driven with the pilot back to Balloon Fiesta Park where we returned to our car.

We were invited to hang out with the crew that afternoon for some tailgating and food in the park but we decided to go as we had to meet a friend, but if you get invited do stay as balloonists know how to celebrate!

Seeing the Hot Air Balloon from elsewhere in Albuquerque

We were lucky in that we were in the city for five days of the festival and we had planned to attend the Balloon Fiesta on three of those days, and the balloons went up on all three! So on the third day, we decided to try to just see them from near where we were staying (in the northwest area of the city).

We got lucky because many of the balloons ended up floating north that morning. We met up with local blogger Leslie of New Mexico Nomad  who knows the area well and we took photos and chased the balloons around the northwest part of Albuquerque and nearby communities of Corrales and Rio Rancho.

This is a nice area to see the balloons as they drift over the Rio Grande River, bosque (forested area around the river), horse farms, and even vineyards. Many of the balloons headed this way will land in parks, fields, and parking lots in this area. Of course you never know for sure where they’ll go or if you’ll get any good photos.

This was a great way to spend our morning, and although the views were not as good as within the Park, it was great to see the balloons in a different way and to not have to deal with the traffic at the Park. We also got to have a nice breakfast together afterward!

Evening Balloon Glows & Fireworks

On several evenings, there will be an evening session of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta that will typically include a Balloon Glow and fireworks show. There are fewer balloons in the evening sessions than at a morning mass ascension because all the balloons need to be inflated and set up at the same time.

Once it gets dark, the burners are lit to make the balloons light up after sunset. They announce each of the balloons and have them light up and do synchronized “all burns” which are awesome to see. The balloons do no launch at these evening events.

There was also a laser show before and after the fireworks where they shine lasers onto the balloons and into the sky. During the evening sessions, the concession stands and vendors are open as well so you can also eat and shop for souvenirs and there are sometimes other things happening as well. I would definitely recommending going to one of these if you haven’t before as they are great to see. The fireworks shows we saw were really great. 

If you ever have the chance to go to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, I would highly recommend going. I loved the experience both times and we hope to have the chance to return a third time!

If you have any questions about the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta or anything related to Albuquerque, just ask us below in the Comments section. We’ve been answering questions since 2013, so you may also find the answer to your question in the Comments below.

Also if you have attended the Balloon Fiesta, we’d love to hear about your own experiences!

**Disclosure: In 2009, I paid for all my tickets, parking, and food at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This post was initially written in 2013 about only my 2009 experience, but has been updated each year. In 2016 and 2018, we were provided parking passes, admission tickets, and given access to the Media tent as media attending the event. However, as always, this article contains only our own honest thoughts and opinions.**

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Merrill Post author

March 9, 2024 at 1:11 pm

So much great information here – thank you! We are planning a trip to ABQ for the 2024 Fiesta – 2 adults, 1 11 yr old. My husband loves photography but is not at all excited about the volume of people we are sure to encounter. So I was looking into the Gondola Club as an escape for him! But I am not 100% sold on the idea. Maybe you have some insights: 1) is there a kid price for Gondola Club? I have seen it mentioned elsewhere but it is not listed on the official website. 2) I have read countless accounts of Gondola Club for morning sessions but what about evening ones? Is it worth it for the PM events? I am ready to buy on the day sales open but given the risks (like non refundable etc) I need more clarity before I can hit the button. Thanx for your input!

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

March 9, 2024 at 6:12 pm

Hi Merrill,

So the ABQ Balloon Fiesta is a very busy event and there is no real way to escape the crowds, but booking tickets to have access to the Chasers’ Club or Gondola Club can help. The Gondola Club does have a nice view over the field. You also get access to nicer facilities, places to sit, and short lines to dedicated food buffet, bar, and toilets.

If you truly wanted to escape the crowds, the best way is to book a morning or evening at the Albuquerque Balloon Museum (located next to the field) and you get a meal and access to their viewing area. We’ve done a morning breakfast there and enjoyed it. However, this is a much further away view than you’d have from the Gondola or Chasers’ Club and I think is best for people who have already been or truly want to be away from the people. And again you have the same issue with it being nonrefundable regardless of the weather.

So there is no discount for child tickets for the Gondola Club (or the Chasers’ Club) as far as I know so the price would be the same. Only kids age 5 and under get in free with a paying adult. So it is not a great deal for families as part of the cost for the Gondola Club is the alcoholic drinks and open bar. The Chasers’ Club is a better value for kids as it only has a cash bar so you are not paying for the drinks in the ticket price.

Your 11 y.o. would probably enjoy the experience of being able to walk around the field and get up close to the balloons as they are being inflated (most balloon events don’t allow you to do this). There are also usually family stuff in the Discovery Center Tent. So even if you do the Gondola Club, you might want to leave for a bit for the two of you to walk around and explore for a bit.

The morning and evening sessions for the Gondola Club are the same except you get a dinner meal instead of a breakfast buffet in the evenings. The event is just really different for the PM sessions as you have just a line of balloons for the Night Glow (rather than a whole field) so you have much more field open for people to spread out. Also the darkness does make photography more challenging and there is more of a singular focus (on the line of glowing balloons or fireworks) rather than in the morning events where balloons are all over the ground and sky.

I would definitely recommend if you are going to Albuquerque for the event to do one morning launch and one Night Glow. But whether the Gondola Club is worth it for a AM and/or PM session is going to depend on what you want and your budget.

But yes as you noted, the big thing to consider is that due to the nature of the event the tickets are not refundable. So even if none of the balloons take off, the cost is the same (as you are also paying for the food/drinks/parking/dedicated space etc.). You can get a return admission ticket if its cancelled that day, but it would just be a general admission ticket, you wouldn’t be able to return to the Gondola Club.

Hope that helps! Jessica

Leslie E. Post author

January 19, 2024 at 12:58 pm

Hey Jessica, Such an informative and fun read! My husband and I will be attending for the first time for the 2024 Balloon Fest. We will be attending possibly Thursday 10th, Friday 11th and Saturday 12th 2024. Wanting to know if you guys suggest doing the Gondola Club for Saturday Morning Mass Ascension or if its best to walk around on that day for better views and picture taking? And also have your heard if “KIDS DAY” is a crazy time around there, perhaps we should do Gondola Club then, on that Friday? ha ha I’m excited to see what your advice will be! Thank you again for posting such wonderful information and pictures! Checking off a Bucket List item for sure! 🙂 Cheers! Leslie

January 19, 2024 at 2:34 pm

Sounds like a great plan – 3 days is a good number to ensure you have a very good chance to see both a morning and evening session even if there are some weather issues during your visit.

I would just say that I would recommend to have at least one day to walk around the field as it is pretty special to get to walk up next to the balloons, see and talk to crews, get views and take photos from different angles and areas, and walk amongst everything. At most large ballooning events (and many smaller ones) around the world, you have to stand behind a barrier. While you obviously have more balloons on a mass ascension day, the experience is pretty similar on the ground level, there is just more of them and they are set up, inflated, and set off in waves. So any day is a good one to be on the field in the mornings, less to walk around and see on the field at night.

For photos, yes, we always recommend being able to walk around the field if you can for at least some of the time (even if you are at Chasers or Gondola Club you can of course leave and walk the field if wanted as well so not necessarily one or the other). You will of course have a good view at the Gondola Club (they have a great viewing location) and can of course still get great photos from the club viewing areas, but obviously you are more limited if you are confined to only one area.

The Gondola Club has a lot of pros, place to sit, viewing area, dedicated toilets, food and drink buffet, security, etc. But the tickets are not refundable if an event is cancelled for any reason (you can reuse the included general admission ticket though) so just something to know. Weekends are always the busiest days (morning and night) so I would probably do a Gondola Club weekend session if you can do one if you want to have Club access on the most crowded day (be sure to be ready to buy tickets when they go on sale in April as weekends go first). That would also mean you have hopefully already had a chance to already be on the field with the balloons before then on Thursday and/or Friday so you can have both perspectives.

So the Kids’ Day used to be in the middle of the week and wasn’t particularly busy (compared to weekends) but they moved it to Friday last year and seem to have it on the tentative 2024 schedule for Friday again next year. The Special Shapes balloons are a big draw for locals and visitors. But the Friday makes it more popular as more people are off or will take off for a three day weekend since it nows falls on a Friday.

Really any morning with balloon launches can be a good day to be on the field or at the Gondola Club, so I think you’ll enjoy it either way!!

Anyway, hope that helps and just let me know if you have any further questions as you plan your 2024 Albuquerque trip.

Best, Jessica

January 23, 2024 at 10:25 am

Jessica, Thank you so much for taking time out of YOUR busy schedule to answer my BalloonFest Questions! You are very appreciated! We will have a fun filled and very busy 3 days in Abq! Casinos, BalloonFest, Abq Old Town, Sandia Peak Tramway, Botanic Gardens, etc! So exciting! Thank you again! Cheers! Leslie

January 23, 2024 at 12:37 pm

You’re very welcome and your trip sounds like a lot of fun. Fingers cross that you have great weather.

It is wonderful to hear you will be planning to explore some of Albuquerque’s other attractions – the Tramway is definitely a highlight for many visitors, it was the first touristy thing I did when I first moved to Albuquerque — the city’s museums are also great if of interest and you’ll definitely want to try some of the local New Mexican food. If you are planning to go out for dinner at any of the more popular sit-down restaurants, be sure to make reservations before your trip as they will be very busy then.

Wishing you a wonderful trip! Jessica

Jed Post author

October 9, 2023 at 3:47 pm

Thank you for this resource! In terms of photographing the event, do you recommend a tripod for capturing shots similar to those above, particularly during the early morning hours?

I am planning to arrive Wednesday afternoon and leave Monday morning. I see the shuttle only runs Friday – Sunday. There is no mass ascension on Friday, but would it still be worth going then? On Saturday I want to be outside the park to photograph the eclipse, but could potentially go back for the mass ascension on Sunday morning, the last day of the festival. I assume on the weekdays the shuttle isn’t running, finding parking won’t be as difficult?

For the eclipse (and other photo opportunities outside the park), I am thinking of staying at the Extended Stay in Rio Rancho. It looks like that will put me directly in the path of both the sun and the Balloon Fiesta Park with the mountains in the background for capturing some cool images. I see there are a few parks over there, Arroyo De Deportes, Cabezon, and A Park Above. Would any of those be good spots to photograph from? If I stay downtown instead, do you think it would still be an easy drive to get over there in the morning or might I hit the traffic from people going into the park?

October 9, 2023 at 5:06 pm

In determining what is going to be a good location for photography outside of the park, it is totally dependent on the winds. The balloons do often go west (I would say more often than they go other directions in our experience), but they can obviously go in any direction. Sometimes they stay pretty close to the field and sometimes they go pretty far out if the winds are stronger. So Rio Rancho or Corrales can be a good spot but sometimes they don’t come that direction. So it is hard to advise until that day but if you are there you’ll generally know once they start launching where they are headed and know the direction of the winds. But we do like the area along the river which goes through some of the parks there. It is possible to get photos with a mountain background, you can even do this from the field, but it depends on which direction the balloons go of course.

We’ve actually stayed in the Extended Stay in Rio Rancho several years ago – it is not the nicest hotel but it can be a good location for the Balloon Fiesta and tends to have pretty low rates compared to others during the Fiesta. It is less than a 10 minute drive to the Cottonwood Mall (one of the Park & Ride locations). So could be a good overall location for you if you want to be near a Park & Ride and also want to be in the west. If you decide to stay downtown instead and want to drive, just be sure to leave yourself plenty of time.

Yes, weekdays are generally not as busy as weekends, particularly on days where there is no mass ascension. Mass ascensions bring more crowds as does the Special Shapes day. This day is falling on a Friday this year and special shape balloons tend to be favorites of a lot of a locals, visitors, and kids, so that often does draw more people than a typical weekday. So if you want to see Special Shapes balloons, Friday is a good day for that this year. The special shapes balloons do participate throughout the competition but this is one day when all of them tend to be there at the same time.

We have used a tripod but mainly just for the evening events and for capturing photos of ourselves or family shots. Since most people move around a lot and there isn’t always a lot of space in the crowds on the field in some areas, we don’t tend to really use it unless we plan to set up in one spot for longer. If you are taking a long lens, then it might make sense to stabilize it if it is harder to handhold for longer periods, particularly for the night glows. A monopod, if you have one or your tripod converts to one, might be more practical if you plan to move around a lot and is a bit lighter.

For the eclipse, then you’ll want a tripod for that if you want to try to photograph it. You need to be really careful as not only can it damage your own eyes if you look at it directly without special eyewear (try to pick up a pair of the free glasses from NASA), it can also damage the sensors of your camera. So it is best to read up a bit on that (B&H has a good article on this) and you’ll want to bring a solar filter. Where you photograph it from doesn’t really matter too much as the balloons will probably all be launched by then and many (if not most) will be down by the time of the main event, the “Ring of Fire”. Most photographers just shoot up to capture an eclipse so the location probably doesn’t make a lot of difference unless you have a specific shot in mind and keep in mind you will have a very short window. So if you are not going to be at Fiesta Park, I’d just find a nice and safe place in Albuquerque with a clear view of the sky.

Hope that helps, and I’d recommend booking your lodging in Albuquerque ASAP if you haven’t done so already. Wishing you a wonderful Fiesta!

October 9, 2023 at 5:27 pm

Thank you for the prompt and detailed reply! It hadn’t occurred to me that the balloons won’t still be up by the time of the eclipse, so perhaps the picture I imagined having the eclipse with a bunch of balloons in the picture won’t work.

That’s a good suggestion about the monopod. Though, I do plan to bring a tripod for the eclipse and I’m not sure if I will have room to bring the monopod too, but will have to see!

And I did purchase a solar filter to put over my camera lens, but appreciate the warning! I understand that everything else in the image will likely be very dark so I’m not sure how well the mountains will show up along with the eclipse. But I hope to go find a spot to photograph from the day before and take some practice shots.

Also good to know that the Extended Stay isn’t the greatest. Unfortunately, there weren’t too many affordable options available. I was almost going to book at the Days Inn By Wyndham Rio Rancho, but the last room became unavailable when I went to book. Another place I looked at downtown is the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Albuquerque Journal Ctr NW and I wonder if you have any experience with that one? It’s comparably priced to the Extended Stay. Do you think I would hit traffic trying to drive from there to Rio Rancho if I still want to photograph over there?

October 12, 2023 at 8:19 am

I would probably just stay at the Extended Stay America in Rio Rancho if you want to drive to Rio Rancho to shorten the drive over there. But yes, all the best hotels and rooms are taken up months before the balloon festival. We actually didn’t have any issues when we stayed (about 5 years ago) but the online reviews are pretty bad lately (but there are rooms available because of that at least). I don’t think we have ever stayed at that La Quinta Inn.

Yes, the darkness (although not completely dark) will make it hard to capture other things with the eclipse and most balloons will probably be down so I’d focus on the eclipse itself.

Would love to hear how your time at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta and your eclipse experience turned out if you want to send us an update!

Wishing you a great week in ABQ!

Dana M. Post author

October 3, 2023 at 4:47 pm

Hello, thanks for this fantastic resource. Will the solar eclipse affect the event? Will it be safe to be on the field or for the balloons to be in the sky? I’ll be traveling with kids.

October 3, 2023 at 5:27 pm

First, so glad that you and your family will be attending the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta!

So the solar eclipse that will be taking place on October 14th during the balloon festival is not a total eclipse, but an annualar eclipse, so the sky won’t become totally dark but it will become much darker as the moon will block out a lot of the sun from reaching the earth for a short period. For about 4 minutes you’ll see what is described as the “Ring of Fire”. If you Google this, you’ll find much better information explaining this annular eclipse from NASA and other great sources.

So in terms of safety, it does mean that the skies will become much darker for a few hours and particularly from about 10:30 to 10:40 so a good idea to know that ahead of time. The balloons should all be in the air already by the darkest part and many may have landed by then.

As a visitor on the ground in crowds, it is a good idea to be more aware then of surroundings and keep kids close as it will be darker. During an annular eclipse, it is never safe to look directly at the Sun without specialized eye protection. During the Fiesta, visitors can pick up a free pair of safety viewing glasses (80,000 pairs will be available) to safely enjoy the solar eclipse event from the NASA tent. The partial eclipse will begin at 9:13am and the annular eclipse (“Ring of Fire”) will be from 10:34am to 10:39am, and the partial eclipse will end at 12:09pm.

So I would just take care during that period and be mindful, let the kids know what is happening, go visit the NASA tent to learn more and pick up your free glasses, and enjoy the event with the kids. I’d avoid being on the road during that short time so you can be out and viewing the skies to witness the “Ring of Fire”. Fingers crossed for good weather and good viewing conditions.

Hope that helps. Enjoy the balloons and the solar eclipse!

Gregg Klein Post author

September 15, 2023 at 5:17 pm

Hi, Has a website link established yet to watch Balloon Fiesta 2023 livefeed online? Gregg

September 15, 2023 at 5:23 pm

I think the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta have been live streaming most of the events for the Balloon Fiesta for the past 7 years or so. You can watch past fiesta events on their live stream page here . And this is also where you will find all the details once the 2023 feed starts. They don’t normally post anything until closer to the event but all the info should be on this webpage if you want to bookmark it.

I will say that last year when I watched some of it, some was good and other was grainy for me. But it may have been my hotel Internet connection, I am not sure.

Also if you live in Albuquerque or are staying in the area, you can watch pretty good updates and coverage on the local TV channel or listen to it on the radio.

September 15, 2023 at 5:31 pm

Thanks Jessica, this is very helpful! Yep, I live in Albuquerque & have a clear view from my backyard (open field behind us). But it’s nice being able to go and watch the live feed. The MCs that I watched on live feed last year were spectacular! Thanks Again😊 Gregg

September 15, 2023 at 6:29 pm

Wonderful, so nice to have a free show in your own backyard!! And yes the live feed or news coverage is a nice addition, especially to learn if there are delays and to hear info about the various balloons/pilots as they launch.

We got to see the drone show in person last year which was a nice addition to the fiesta we thought and it should be returning again this year with a new show.

We sadly won’t be able to be there this year, but fingers crossed for some lovely weather in October!

Enjoy! Jessica

September 15, 2023 at 6:35 pm

All sounds great Jessica😊 My mom, sister & brother in-law are coming this year! So nice weather is what we’re hoping for! Maybe you’ll be able to make it next year☺️ Gregg

Susan Post author

August 27, 2023 at 9:31 am

My husband and I will be coming to the Balloon Fiesta for the first time. We have a flight out of ABQ at 1:20 p.m. on 10/7 and are concerned about making the flight. We are in the process of trying to determine if we are better off driving ourselves and parking at the fiesta or using the park/ride. We want to be at the park to see the early morning Drone show,the Dawn Patrol and the Mass Ascension. After that we will probably head to the airport. While it seems like we should have plenty of time, I have some doubts after reading some reviews.

If we drive ourselves, what time should be plan to arrive at the parking lot to avoid the massive traffic (or is that not possible). Is leaving the parking lot as hard as arriving (traffic wise)? Failing that, we will use the park and ride, but are concerned about long waits to board the return busses.

Your insight/suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your help.

P.S. You have a great guide posted online. Thanks for all the info!

August 27, 2023 at 12:19 pm

So, yes, expect bad traffic going both to and from the festival as everyone who comes has to leave and most people start leaving around the same time. For morning sessions, I believe they start opening the public parking at 4:30am so really that is the earliest you can arrive if driving yourself. The first Park & Ride buses begin to leave the parking lots around 4am (and should have you there around 4:30ish). It is good to shoot for an early time although is not necessary to be there first thing as the events don’t begin until 5:45 or 6am. But I would say it is a good idea to try to aim to get to the park by around 5am . If you have Chasers Clube or Gondola Club tickets those areas don’t generally open until around 5:30am for the morning sessions. If you arrive after 6am on a weekend, you run the risk of not being able to park at all.

In terms of driving versus Park & Ride. For the morning, it probably doesn’t make much difference with timing for arrival but for leaving, it might be better to drive yourself just as you can leave at whatever time you need to leave without worrying about lines to get on bus or how many buses are operating (although still will need to deal with wait/traffic to get out of parking etc.). I think the Park & Ride could still work on your schedule but it might be more stressful for you.

So for the events, generally balloons are up by 10am or before even if there is a bit of delay (they take about 2 hours to fully launch normally so if they start at 7amish, they should be about done by 9amish). Most things in the morning session should be over by 11:00am. Perhaps even earlier if all goes as planned with the balloon launches etc. If they cancel that morning, you’ll know well before then and most people already at the park leave the park soon after the announcement. So I think you could leave between 10am and 11am and have plenty of time for your flight (assuming it is a domestic one).

On a good day with no traffic, it takes about 20 minutes to drive from the Fiesta Park to the Albuquerque Sunport airport along the interstate but I’d leave at least twice as long given traffic due to the event AFTER you get out of the parking area and onto the highway. Presumably, you have a domestic flight (not an international one)? I guess you also need to drop off your rental car? So I would recommend being there no later than noon for a domestic flight or 11:20am for an international one. Leave more time if you can. The airport is not that big (and in my experience pretty efficient) but it will likely be busier than usual being the Balloon Fiesta and a weekend.

Personally, if it is an option and not too expensive, I would recommend changing your flight time if you can to one later in the afternoon, say 3pm or so. Just so that you know you don’t need to worry at all about it and can enjoy your time more without worrying so much about traffic/parking/rental car return and all that. That way you could just take the Park & Ride without any worries about waits and times and you won’t have to worry about traffic or parking at the event at all.

Anyway, hope that helps!

Susan Zuckerman Post author

August 27, 2023 at 12:28 pm

Thank you so much Jessica for the detailed reply. I really appreciate it!! Susan

August 28, 2023 at 4:51 pm

You’re very welcome! Wishing you a wonderful time in Albuquerque.

Joelle Post author

August 16, 2023 at 3:12 pm

Hello Jessica and Laurence!

First off I want to thank you so much for an absolutely fantastic and informative website!! I found it to be so incredibly helpful! I had a quick question for you, we will be coming to the Albuquerque balloon fiesta for the very first time this year (2023). We are staying at the Springhill Suites Albuquerque University Area hotel And have purchased tickets for the Park and Ride for the morning of Saturday, October 7th. We were thinking that the Cottonwood Mall we are one of the Park and Ride is located would be maybe the easiest locations to go to from our hotel. My question is, How much time do you think we should give ourselves to leave that morning from the hotel to get to the Park and Ride location at Cottonwood mall in order to make the 5:30 am shuttle? Is the traffic typically pretty bad just driving and getting to the Park and Ride locations? Thanks so much! 🙏😊

August 17, 2023 at 1:25 pm

So glad you are finding our post helpful in planning your first visit to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta!! So there are a a couple of Springhill Suites but I think you are staying at this hotel location on Central Avenue NE, and if that is so, it is normally about a 20 minute or so drive to the Cottonwood Mall. Since that location takes you up near the Balloon Fiesta Park area and you could potentially be driving some of the same roads like I-25 as those going to park and pilots, you may encounter a bit of traffic in that section. So I’d avoid the I-25 route that takes you up near the Fiesta Park, and instead the route that goes on 40 West and then north up NM 45/Coors (although check local traffic first before setting out in case one route is slower/blocked for any reason). So if trying to make a 5:30am shuttle, I’d probably leave by 4:45am as you also need a little time to find the right parking area, park, and walk to shuttle. You may get on an earlier bus if you arrive earlier.

But actually if you still have a choice in Park & Ride locations, the Coronado Center is going to be closer for you if staying near UNM, about a 12 minute drive (so about half the time). So that would be my recommended Park & Ride location based on your hotel. And its nowhere near the Fiesta Park area so unlikely to be any real traffic before 5am. So I’d choose this one as closest for you if staying near UNM. So if doing this option, I would just leave by 5am from your hotel and you should be fine as there is unlikely to be much traffic at 5am in that area.

All traffic in ABQ area is worse during the Balloon Fiesta (also affects Santa Fe and other popular areas), I remember being annoyed going to work when I lived in ABQ so be prepared for everything to take a bit longer just as there are so many extra people in the city and surrounding area for those 10 days or so. So do factor that in and also if there are specific tours you want to do or restaurants you want to try, I’d book those in advance as waits can be long and popular restaurants often book out in advance (particularly for dinner and on weekends). But normally at 5am, the only areas that are really bad is that area around the Fiesta Park and where everyone is trying to get off the main highways in that area. When we drove around downtown ABQ last year during the balloon fiesta there was no significant traffic. So I’d just double the time Google Map or your GPS says it will take and you should be ok, but if you are up and ready earlier, it never hurts to leave early.

If you don’t have anything you need to get back to that day, I’d hang around the field after the balloons have launched and check out the exhibits, concessions, etc. and wait a bit as the lines to get on the shuttles can get really long as soon as most of the balloons are launched and everyone rushes back. So we like to just hang around and wander rather than standing in line if using the shuttles. Just be sure to note when the last bus leaves for your Park & Ride location that morning so you don’t get left behind! 😉

I’d also of course have a back-up day that if event is canceled on the planned day, you can still go another day. If session is cancelled that morning due to weather or balloons do not launch, you can keep your ticket for admission and just need to buy a bus-only ticket for another session. See the details on the website when you buy your ticket.

Hope that helps, and just let me know if you have any further questions!

Chris & Lani Post author

August 9, 2023 at 6:03 pm

Second time we are attending the festival and second time I am asking a question :^), thank you. We just got notified that a spot opened up in the presidential RV lot and we reserved it from the Monday before till 10/11/23. Do you happen to know how early we would need to arrive to have a reasonable chance to get the front row in the presidential lot?

Also, do you know if there is a section in the presidential RV lot to set up chairs to watch the events from up high or would we need to have a front row RV spot in order to watch the festivities from the lot?

August 10, 2023 at 12:05 am

Hi Chris & Lani,

That’s great, and glad you are planning a return this year. Sounds like you are going to have 5 days at the festival which is great – lots of extra time to also explore some of the city too!

As you probably already know, the RV parking in all the lots is “rally style” and so first come, first serve in choosing spots. Obviously parking is also always at the discretion of the staff, a volunteer will direct you to an available marked space. I believe that registration and parking opens at 8am on the days BEFORE the festival starts (but you should receive an info packet with all the latest info before the event) so obviously the earlier you come the more likely you are to get the kind of spot that you want. However, the President’s Compound RV lot and all the various VIP RV lots are very close to the launch field and I am not sure the specific spot makes too much of a difference to most people.

So on the edge of the President’s Compound RV parking area you can walk up to a fence there and there is a little grassy/dirt bluff area where you often see people standing or sitting. This gives you a nice view over that side of the launch field if you prefer to go sit there with a chair rather than go around and onto the launch field. Note that this is not a RV parking spot but just the grassy area next to the parking area. So everyone there in the President’s Compound area can access this area, it makes no difference which spot you are in with your RV. So getting a “front row” for your RV probably doesn’t make much difference (especially if it means you needing to have to get there before you really want to) as this little bluff area in front is probably a better area to sit than on the parking space itself. We always see some people sitting and standing up there. Hopefully that makes sense?

Anyway, hope that helps and hope you enjoy your second Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta!!

Kim Andersen Post author

August 8, 2023 at 11:58 pm

Super helpful article! I’m planning to attend in 2024 and am considering staying at the Holiday Inn and walking to the festival. I’m okay with the distance, but wondering if there are any issues I should be aware of. Thanks!

August 9, 2023 at 10:33 am

So yes, in terms of Holiday Inns I am assuming you mean the Holiday Inn Express on Alameda NE that we note as being one of the closer lodging options? Just be sure to book that one as there are loads of Holidays Inn hotels in and around the city and some are definitely not within walking distance of the festival 😉

So yes, assuming you mean that hotel, then it is about a 25 minute walk away from the Balloon Fiesta Park. I would allow at least 30 minutes and to be very careful in walking as there will be a lot of vehicle traffic and cyclists out on the roads. Since you’ll likely be walking in the dark (either for morning or evening session) wearing a reflective jacket/vest and having a headlamp or flashlight is probably a good idea for your safety. Just be careful as not all the roads have sidewalks or are that pedestrian friendly although you don’t need to cross or walk along 1-25 so that is good! If going with kids, be sure to keep them close.

But walking is a great way to avoid the traffic nightmare and to avoid parking fees, you also can come/leave as you wish. You’ll just need to purchase your admission tickets, you can do this in advance or at one of the ticket booths at the gate near the entrance. Just be sure to do that before you get into the security lines.

If staying at the Holiday Inn, you are also about a 25 minute walk from the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum (next to the Fiesta Park) and I’d highly recommend a visit at some point during your trip.

Also, be sure to book your hotel now if you haven’t done so already as it shows as already sold out over some of the dates of the festival for this year! The 10 days around the Balloon Fiesta are almost always the busiest (and most expensive) time to stay in Albuquerque so be sure to book well in advance.

So glad you have been finding our article helpful and just let us know if you have further questions as you plan you trip to attend the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta!

August 9, 2023 at 10:46 am

Angel Sanchez Post author

July 11, 2023 at 7:08 am

Hi Jessica,

Amazing guide, was hoping to get there finally this year but not likely to happen. Do you know when the 2024 Balloon Fiesta will be happening?

Thanks, Angel

July 11, 2023 at 9:09 am

Thanks, and hope you are able to make it to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta next year. The dates for the 2024 event are October 5th to October 13th.

Admission and Park & Ride tickets normally go on sale in April (RV/campground spaces normally open in January).

TRR Post author

March 2, 2023 at 8:34 pm

Can you give any insight on whether Gondola Club tickets typically sell out right away on the day tickets go on sale?

March 3, 2023 at 5:36 am

No, they don’t typically sell on the first day but most of the tickets certainly sell out by the end of summer. The most popular days and sessions do often sell out well before then. Once tickets are available and you know for sure you plan to attend the Balloon Fiesta and know which days you will be in Albuquerque, I would book your tickets if you definitely want to be able to sit in the Gondola Club.

Hope that helps and wishing you a great trip to Albuquerque!

Trr Post author

April 7, 2023 at 8:32 am

FYI, gondola club, chaser club and concierge for the first weekend all sold out within 15 minutes.

April 8, 2023 at 12:43 pm

Wow, that is really unusual. Thanks for letting us know. Yes, both the Gondola Club and Chasers Clubs are sold out in the first day of ticket sales online for the opening weekend this year (October 7th and 8th, both morning and evening sessions). The Concierge service tickets are now showing as completely sold out for the full festival and don’t appear to be available any longer.

There are still Gondola Club and Chasers’ Club tickets available for the other sessions during the festival so I would strongly recommend anyone interested in these tickets to BOOK ASAP. We have never seen tickets sell out this fast before and it looks like they will likely all sell out fairly quickly.

I hope you were still able to get the tickets you wanted or at least on another date.

Kaye Post author

October 2, 2022 at 2:50 pm

Are you required to leave the park and the parking lot after the morning session is over? Will I be able to tow/park my camping trailer to the parking lot at Balloon Fiesta Park or the shuttle parking lots?

October 3, 2022 at 6:53 am

So you are supposed to get admission tickets for each session. Some days there are a morning and evening session and some days there are only morning sessions. There is generally not much going on during the afternoons (although depends on the day so check the schedule). But they will not require you to leave, but the majority of people do leave after the morning session and come back later for the evening sessions. You do need to leave the parking lots after the evening sessions of course.

So I don’t think you can bring RVs or camping trailers into the general parking at the Balloon Fiesta (but you can call them to check). There are places for RV parking but those require a pre-booked reservation. But you should be able to park a travel trailer for the day at the Park & Ride shuttle parking lots. Note that you need to book Park & Ride shuttles in advance if you plan to use the shuttles.

October 3, 2022 at 5:27 pm

Thank you so much for answering my question and for all the great info you supply for Balloon Fiesta.

Chris Post author

September 25, 2022 at 8:53 am

Thanks so much for putting this together. My wife and I are planning our first trip to the 2022 festival and are really looking forward to it. I may have missed it in your blog, but I have some questions.

When attending the late sessions, what are your recommendations as far as leaving the early sessions and attempting to park at the festival for the late sessions? For the morning sessions, we plan on arriving by 5:00 AM to avoid the crush of traffic but what about the afternoon/evening sessions if we leave the early session and want to come back for late sessions? We will be staying 19 miles away on I-25. Should we even attempt to park on site in the afternoon or should we look for alternative public transportation?

Are there things to do around Fiesta Park to kill time between sessions so we wouldn’t have to leave the area but that would make for long days?

Thanks again.

Chris and Lani

September 25, 2022 at 10:59 am

Hi Chris and Lani,

So happy that our Balloon Fiesta guide has been helpful and wishing you a wonderful first festival.

So, depending on the day, there is stuff at the Fiesta Park until about 10 or 11am. After that there is normally not much to do with the exception of the day of the Music Fiesta (need separte tickets) or Gas Balloon Race. Be sure to check the schedule for the dates of your visit. But generally you’ll probably end up with about 5 to 6 hours to kill between sessions.

For the afternoon sessions, they normally start at 5pm, so I’d probably plan to be back by 4pm to park for the evening sessions. There aren’t really any other public transportation options (see how to get there options above), so your best option is probably to park since you have your car or do Park & Ride (available on certain days, need to book in advance).

So the top attraction we’d recommend nearby would of course be the Balloon Museum (Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum) as it is just next to the Fiesta Park and a great place to visit for anyone who wants to know more about hot air balloons. You can actually walk there or its a short drive to park there. Other places near the Fiesta Park along or near 1-25 are Sandia Casino, Gruet Winery, and Cliff’s Amusement Park.

A lunch recommendation if looking for New Mexican food is Sadie’s which is a classic casual New Mexican restaurant that been around since the ’50s and is located just off 1-25 (there are 3 locations, 2 are not far from the Fiesta Park, the closest location is about a 10 minute drive from the Park).

Another idea is to head to Sandia Peak Tramway, do the tram, do a short hike, have lunch, and then head back to the Fiesta Park. Another idea is to head to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center which is a museum and cultural center and also has a restaurant that we recommend where you could have lunch. But there are lots of other options, just depends on what you enjoy doing.

Just note that there are of course going to be a lot more people than normal in Albuquerque and lots of tourists looking to do many of the same things. So just be aware and patient as places are going to be busier than usual. And make sure to make bookings at any must-see places if reservations if required or recommended. Normally for lunch and most museums, reservations are not required but I would make them for dinner out at sit-down restaurants (many places will book up for the dates during the Fiesta) and for any tours or attractions that recommend pre-booking tickets.

Barbara Quale Lifland Post author

September 24, 2022 at 2:52 pm

Wonderfully informative- thank you! We have Gondola Club tickets for a morning session and an evening session this year. I’ve tried to read everything you have written and read many (if not most) of the questions and your replies but I haven’t come across mine. I have a Nikon (mirrorless, full frame) Z6 and hope to get some photos worthy of enlarging and printing. Will I need to bring a tripod? I can’t see that they aren’t allowed but I don’t want to create a hazard for others. Any tips are welcome. At this point I’m only a hobbyist but typically shoot manual or aperture priority, not auto mode. Thank you!

September 25, 2022 at 6:17 am

Hi Barbara,

Glad you hear you found our content useful! We are going to be at the ABQ Balloon Fiesta again this year ourselves as well 😉

So we also shoot with a full frame camera, and in our experience, you generally won’t need a tripod for most of the sessions. As you are normally moving around along with the balloons, lugging around a tripod doesn’t really make sense for most people. You are also shooting lots of angles so you’d be needing to adjust it a lot. You should be able to get nice photos of the hot air balloons for printing without needing a tripod in the morning and afternoons.

You are able to bring a tripod (at least security has always allowed them in the past) and you can set one up as long as you are respectful of the pilots, safety crew, and other visitors. Whilst there is room to put one up on the field, in most cases the main advantage of a tripod (being able to shoot at slow shutter speeds) is negated because the balloons and people move around, so you end up with slightly blurry images if you use slower shutter speeds.

With a camera like the Nikon Z6, I’d say the best option is to use a lens with a wide aperture and then set a relatively high ISO. It’s only going to be very early in the morning, pre-dawn, when you might need these settings. As the sun comes up there should be enough available light to start to turn the ISO down to a normal level.

The only time we’d probably recommend people consider bringing a tripod is for the evening sessions during the Night Glow where you can get some nice shots. The low light and the fact the balloons are more static can make a tripod useful. There is still a bit of movement but it makes for a nice effect. There are also normally fireworks or light shows as well that can be better captured using a monopod or tripod.

If you are wanting photos of yourself, obviously a tripod can also be useful for that rather than asking someone else to take your photo.

Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have more questions. Wishing you a wonderful Fiesta!

September 25, 2022 at 8:32 pm

This is all very helpful- thank you!

Stacy Lynn Adkins Post author

August 28, 2022 at 5:27 am

Thank you so much for the information in this post. The ticketing situation was pretty confusing to figure out but this was very helpful! I see Tuesdays are slow days for the festival but are there still alot of balloons that take off for mass ascension that morning? My fiance and I plan on getting married in a hot air balloon that morning and I am really hoping that there will be many balloons still going up that day. Hopefully if the weather cooperates for us!

Jessica Post author

August 28, 2022 at 6:36 am

How exciting a nice way to celebrate the start of your marriage! I am assuming you are taking off from the Balloon Fiesta launch field with Rainbow Ryders? Or are you going with another company launching outside of the field? I am going to assume you are launching from the field (otherwise it is much harder to say as balloons launching from outside are going to likely be further from the rest of the balloons).

So on Tuesday this year there is a regular Balloon Launch scheduled. So this is not a mass ascension but there is still a lot of hot air balloons launched over the course of about 1 hour. I am not sure the max number that can fly on a Balloon Launch, but I’d expect about a third or one half of the number maybe of a mass ascension. The actual number who participate each day depends on which pilots who signed up to go that morning and also sometimes the weather. But the Balloon Launches can be nice as there is generally fewer people and less traffic on these days.

The commercial flights carrying passengers are often some of the first to launch and go up from the field. You should get a nice view down of the balloons below being laid out, filled, and launching. So you’ll likely be one of the first balloons up and then more will join you over the course of the hour or so of the launch. So even though it is not a mass ascension, there will still be plenty of other balloons up in the sky with you. If the wind is light, balloons tend to bunch together and if winds are stronger or moving in different directions, they tend to drift further apart.

But yes, the weather is probably the main concern. I would definitely get info about what happens if your flight isn’t able to take off that morning as scheduled and have a back-up plan for that situation.

Hope that helps and wishing you a wonderful time at the Balloon Fiesta and a lovely wedding!!

Jill Harenza Post author

July 21, 2022 at 1:15 pm

Thank you thank you thank you. My 10,000 questions were answered in your post. Really appreciate it. Jill

July 22, 2022 at 11:35 am

Glad it was helpful, and enjoy your time at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. If you have any further questions, just ask!

travelwithme Post author

June 17, 2022 at 3:36 am

Beautiful pictures! I love ballooning!!

June 17, 2022 at 6:01 am

Glad you enjoyed our photos. Hope you have a chance to visit the festival yourself!

Meghan Powers Post author

June 13, 2022 at 7:57 pm

This is a wonderful post, thank you!!!! If I do the park and ride option, but I plan to do both the morning and evening session on the same day, do I have to leave to go back to the parking location at the end of the first session? Or does the grounds/event stay open the whole day so that we could just stay at the park all day and not go back and forth? Any advice on that is appreciated!

June 14, 2022 at 1:37 am

Yes, there is a general period where nothing is happening at the Fiesta park for several hours between the morning session and evening session. Basically, the official Morning Session ends at 10:00am and the Evening Session does not begin until 5:00pm.

The exception to that is the day of the Music Fiesta, which takes place in the afternoon, so if you are staying for that you’d want to probably stay all day. But otherwise, it probably makes sense to go back, do something else for in the afternoon hours, and then head back to the park for the evening events.

Hope that helps!

Gilbert Post author

May 20, 2022 at 4:08 pm

Wow, what a wonderful information packed-site!

Is there much of a difference between the ascension events on the weekends (Mass Ascension) vs. weekdays (Balloon launch, Special Shape Rodeo)? Are there a lot more balloons launched during the Mass Ascension mornings? Also, we are considering the morning balloon ride with Rainbow Ryders…will it be better on a weekend or weekday?

Thanks in advance and keep up the great work!

May 21, 2022 at 7:19 am

Hi Gilbert!

Glad that you are finding our Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta post helpful in planning your visit. We are heading back ourselves this year!

So as noted the mass ascensions are where the most hot air balloons are launched at once over a couple of hours in the mornings. These typically (weather permitting) take place on the weekend mornings and one day during the week (normally Wednesdays). You can check the schedule for the specific dates. So if only going for one day and want to see the most hot air balloons, then a mass ascension is good to try to catch.

However, the balloon launches still often see over 100 balloons launched and the Special Shapes Rodeo is a great place to see all the special shape and character balloons launched. These balloons tend to be most people’s favorites. Many of the special shape balloons also launch during the regular launches and mass ascensions as well, but you get to see them all together on that day. Another good thing about the regular balloon launches during the week is that they are typically less crowded than the weekends.

For booking a morning balloon ride with Rainbow Ryders during the festival, the mass ascensions morning dates are a great option as you’ll be going up with a lot more balloons so you’ll see more on the ground and in the sky with you. However, any day can be great to launch from the field with the the other balloons. Prices may also differ by day (prices can be higher for the weekend flights) so I’d check that as well when making your decision.

Another issue to consider for booking your balloon flight is the possibility of weather/safety related cancellations and how many days you have in Albuquerque (this is also true for attending the festival). I would book so that you would have the chance to potentially rebook another day if you can (although this may not be possible if they don’t have any free spaces and you’d just get a refund). There is pretty much always at least one day when the passenger flights are canceled during the festival.

May 23, 2022 at 10:56 am

Thanks for your detailed reply, Jessica! Based on your advice, we booked for Wed which a mass ascension day, is slightly cheaper than the other days, and still gives us a few days in case there is a weather related cancellation. And we plan to come back on other days to catch the Special Shapes Rodeo and evening events too! Thanks again for the great advice and website!

May 25, 2022 at 4:51 am

Hi Gilbert,

You are very welcome and I hope you have a wonderful time at the festival. Fingers crossed that you get good weather Wednesday morning for your flight.

My husband and I are planning to return this year as well – it will be the 50th anniversary of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta!

Nick F Post author

April 1, 2022 at 5:39 pm

Hello Jessica,

thanks for all this great info on the Balloon Fiesta. just need a bit of help as a bit confused on what all tickets we will need for our family. thinking of attending the second weekend on both Sat and Sun – for Saturday if I want to do the Music Fiesta do I need to purchase separate tickets for the Morning Session, Afternoon Session, and the Music Fiesta? For Sunday, both Morning and Afternoon?

What happens if we decide to do the Park & Ride shuttle bus tix?

April 2, 2022 at 6:12 am

Ok, first you will definitely need Music Fiesta tickets – these can be purchased online in advance (recommended) but I believe if there are still tickets available, they will also be selling them at the event on the day of the Music Fiesta. All those wanting to attend the music concert at the Balloon Fiesta will need those specific tickets. Now, Music Fiesta guests can stay for that evening’s balloon glow and fireworks without purchasing an extra ticket.

Next, admission tickets. So yes, most days of the event have both morning and evening activities and are divided into a Morning Session and Evening Session. Each ticket permits admission for one session. So if you wanted to attend both the morning and evening activities, you would need 2 general admission tickets per person for that day. Note that on that last Sunday, there is only a Morning Session as there are no afternoon or evening events, so you would only need tickets for the Morning Session.

So the Park & Ride shuttle tickets are a good option if you are staying near one of the Park & Ride locations and don’t want to have to battle the traffic. They don’t run every day but they do run on that weekend so that is an option. You do need to book those tickets online in advance as they stopped selling them on-site a couple of years ago. The Park & Ride shuttle tickets include your admission for that session. So if you decide to do Park & Ride, you do NOT need to buy individual admission tickets (or pay for parking obviously). If you decide to drive yourself, parking is $20 per vehicle, be sure to bring cash.

Now, if you decide to do Park & Ride Morning Session on Saturday and attend the Music Fiesta and stay for the Evening session, you would not obviously use your return ticket that morning. So I would think they would allow you to use your return ticket to go back to the lot that evening after the Evening Session ends (but I would double check that).

If you are attending with children, depending on their ages, they may get in free as long as accompanied by adults with tickets. Those under 12 get in free for most things.

So as you can see, it is a bit complicated and confusing as what you decide to do will affect the other tickets you need. You’ll need to decide if you want to attend the Music Fiesta and if you want to do Park & Ride or not first, then that will let you know how many admission tickets (if any) that you will need to purchase. You can purchase admission tickets online in advance or in-person on site at the event.

Hope that helps, and just let me know if you have further questions!

heidi Post author

August 12, 2021 at 7:18 pm

Thank you for such wonderful information! Wondering if you think walking to the festival is a good idea? We are staying at an apartment about 2.4 miles from the park. About a 50min walk and a 5 min drive. I’m nervous about the parking situation and the shuttles and traffic. We can certainly handle an hour walk just fine but is that the best idea, is it safe to walk? Also what time if walking would we want to arrive at the park so as not to miss anything, for the morning session. Would we still need to get there at 4:30am? Thank you in advance for your advice!

August 13, 2021 at 7:18 am

Yes, so walking is definitely an option but just note that depending on your walking route, you are likely going to have to cross highways and some places are not very pedestrian-friendly. So if you decide to walk, just be careful and leave extra time in case you encounter detours. I’d also recommend having a flashlight or torch with you and wearing a reflective vest for safety as it will likely be dark when setting out (morning session) or coming home (night session) and there will be increased traffic due to the fiesta. You’ll want to make sure the walking path you set will take you to the entrance of the event.

Another option may be to rent a bicycle. There is a free bike valet at the festival run by volunteers and there is a cycle trail you can follow, it just depends if you are staying near the cycling trail or not. You’ll want to make sure you have a helmet and reflective gear. You’ll want to follow the bike trail and set your end point at the Bike Valet . Note that even if walking, the trail may be a good bet if you are staying near it and are looking for a path for you to follow. Most bike trails are multipurpose trails.

If you are near a Park & Ride shuttle, those are obviously a great option to avoid driving, parking, or walking to the event. Your transport and admission ticket are included.

The park opens to visitors for the morning sessions at 4:30AM, so you don’t want to arrive before then. But the actual balloon events normally begin around 6:00am or 6:30am. So as long as you can get there and get through ticketing/security by then, you shouldn’t miss anything. The mass ascension balloons normally first start taking off around 7:00am. But be sure to double-check the schedule for the particular day you plan to visit.

Barbara Post author

July 3, 2021 at 8:41 am

On the news, they said they were doing a new launch this year of a bunch of little balloons. If they get enough, it will be a Guinness World record! I’d like to go that day so we can say we were there. But, am having difficulty finding out when they are going to do it. Do you know when that would be?

July 3, 2021 at 9:18 am

I think you may be referring to the Remote Control Balloons Exhibition which is tentatively scheduled for Sunday morning (October 3rd), Wednesday morning, and Friday morning. It is a remote control balloon rally event geared towards kids. And yes they are trying to break a world record if they get enough applications and people who show up to participate.

You should see the event on the schedule as Remote Control Balloons Exhibition or Remote Control Balloon Rally. No other real details have been released yet and I’ve not seen this event on the schedule in prior years here. If you want to see these balloons, you should be able to see them on three different days of the event.

Barbara Taft Post author

July 4, 2021 at 12:54 pm

Carolyn McElhany Post author

July 1, 2021 at 12:34 pm

Do you know if the evening light show and fireworks is also weather dependent?

July 1, 2021 at 12:47 pm

Hi Carolyn,

All outdoor events at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta are obviously weather dependent, but the evening balloon glows, lights shows, and fireworks are less likely to be canceled or delayed than the morning balloon launches due to weather. They don’t require the same conditions as the launches and there are not as many safety issues and they can often still take place if it is cloudy, a little windy, or a little drizzle, but they can be delayed or canceled if the weather is bad (e.g., rain, strong winds, storm).

If they cancel the evening balloon glows in advance, they will also typically cancel the light shows and fireworks. But if they aren’t able to get the balloons up and crowds are already there when it is canceled, they will typically still try to do the light show and/or fireworks if they can. It really just depends on the situation. But delays and cancelations will be announced on the Fiesta’s social media accounts, local radio stations, local TV coverage, and over the loudspeaker at the event itself.

Paul H. Post author

May 7, 2021 at 11:16 am

My wife and I are both in our late 60’s and will be coming to the Balloon Fiesta 2021, for the first time and attending the opening day ceremonies, both morning and evening. We are going to purchase either the Gondola Club tickets or the Museum VIP tickets……was wondering if one is better than the other for each session in the morning and evening. What are the differences? Can you go wander through the balloons in the morning with these tickets or are you required to stay in that section only. Do you get a better view for the evening activities from one versus the other of these two ticket venues? I know what the cost will be for the Gondola Club but can’t find a price for the VIP museum tickets, didn’t know if it was more or less. Thanks for any insight you can give me on making our decision. Thanks.

May 8, 2021 at 8:13 am

Glad you found our Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Guide!

So the Gondola Club and experiences offered at the Anderson Abruzzo International Balloon Museum are pretty different. The Gondola Club is set up on one side of the Balloon Fiesta field and is a private fenced in area. But the museum experience takes place within the museum itself which is further away and not directly on the field, but has a good view over it. The museum has an indoor area for dining as well as an outdoor balcony viewing area for watching the balloons.

You can see the different amenities offered and compare them on what is most important to you. The museum can offer overall a nicer experience as it is an indoor venue with full facilities and is meant for people who want to be away from the event crowds. But the Gondola Club gets you closer to the balloons.

If you want to walk amongst the balloons, the Gondola Club is going to be better. You can leave the Gondola Club area and walk around to access the field easily if you want to walk around the balloons. However, if you are dining at the museum, you’d need to purchase a separate ticket to access the field and take a shuttle between the two venues.

For prices for the museum’s experience tickets, their 2021 tickets are not available for sale until July 1st. You can call the museum to see if they have prices set yet so you know the cost. I expect both will sell out this year well in advance of the event, especially for the opening day, so I would purchase your tickets as soon as you decide. One thought might be to do the Gondola Club in the morning and then do the evening museum dinner that evening.

I would just caution that if you are only planning to attend for only 1 day that if the weather is bad that day you may not get to see the hot air balloons. This is always an issue if you have a limited amount of time. We generally advise people to plan to be around to attend for 2 to 3 days to ensure they will be pretty certain to see the balloons.

Paul Post author

May 8, 2021 at 3:11 pm

Thank you Jessica, I appreciate your information that you gave us. I have contacted the museum several times and left messages but they have not gotten back to me, but I’ll keep trying…. Do you know if parking is included in the price of the VIP package at the museum? What is the museum’s policy on cancelations due to weather, I can’t seem to find it. We have designated two full days in Albuquerque, in case the opening day gets cancelled. So if the first day does get cancelled, I realize that we will not get refunded if we purchase Gondola Club tickets, and will just receive a general admission ticket (will that automatically be for the next day?) but would that general admission ticket include parking too? What if the park-n-ride shuttle is already full, since you have to get your ticket online…..I apologize for all the questions, just want to be prepared when I make the reservations. Thanks.

May 9, 2021 at 1:43 am

The museum, like most places, has reduced hours and staff due to the pandemic so I would just keep trying. But the tickets themselves for the museum events don’t go on sale until July 1st according to the website. All of the details for the museum tickets have not been released but they should include parking at the museum (but not in the Balloon Fiesta event parking or entry to the Fiesta field). Since the meals and event at the museum take place regardless of what happens with the balloons, I suspect the cancelation policy is pretty strict and is not related to weather (unless of course the museum event would be canceled itself for some reason).

Yes, similarly, if you purchase a Gondola Club or Chasers’ Club ticket, you still have access to those places if the weather is bad that day, but if the balloons do not go up, I believe you will only be given a general admission ticket to use later. I’d check the cancelation policy for details or ask when booking. In the past, you could use the tickets on whichever day, but certainly you can use it to come the next day. The general admission tickets do not include parking, so if you returned, you’d still have to pay for parking.

The Park and Ride shuttles need to be pre-booked in most cases as I think they stopped allowing walk-up ticket purchases a year or so ago. This is to ensure there are enough spaces for everyone who books. They just have a bunch of shuttles that come to pick up people at the designated times and places. So if you plan to take the shuttles, you will likely need to have booked these before you attend the Balloon Fiesta.

May 9, 2021 at 8:15 am

Thanks again Jessica for the helpful information! We are rethinking for the morning session, since we want to walk around amongst the balloons and just get the park-n-ride shuttle for the morning mass ascension for both days……..so that will just leave the evening session…..Gondola Club or Museum? Wondering if being inside the balloon park (Gondola Club) will be better for the show and activities, or will you see the same thing at the Museum……which do you suggest.

May 10, 2021 at 2:28 am

Personally, my favorite place is on the field and we normally just do the General Admission. For a first-time experience, it is so nice to be able to spend the time walking the field and seeing the hot air balloons up close. The Gondola Club is right next to the field so you get a great view, but unless you are OK with spending the money even if the balloons may not go up, you definitely save a lot of money with a general admission ticket!

Yes, so the Park & Ride shuttle tickets come with the general admission tickets included so they are just a short walk from the entrance and exit. So there is nothing else you would need to purchase. Just be sure to book those in advance for the dates that you plan to ride as I expect they will sell out before the event. You can purchase them for morning and afternoon sessions. Just a reminder that the shuttles do not run on certain weekdays (Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays generally as these are typically the least busy days).

I think both the Museum and the Gondola Club can be good venues for a Night Glow event if you want to pay for a nicer experience. If you have already walked on the field with the balloons for a morning event, the Museum might be a nice alternative but offers a more distant view. But Gondola Club gives you the option to go out on the field as well. For the balloon glows and evening events, there is less to see on the field itself as there are fewer balloons taking part and the glows (usually about a dozen or so) and the light shows and fireworks can be seen pretty well from a distance. I would perhaps just compare the amenities, prices, and photos and just go with the one that sounds best to you! If you enjoy watching hot air balloons, I am sure you’ll enjoy either.

Liz carlson Post author

January 19, 2021 at 6:41 am

I’m having a little trouble navigating – only want to spend 1 day at the balloon festival. for 2021 would Oct 9 mass asention be a good day?

January 23, 2021 at 8:33 am

Yes if you are only coming for 1 day, a morning mass ascension is a great event to attend.

Generally, I’d recommend coming for at least 2 full days so that if the events are canceled on one day, you have a chance to catch them the following day.

The 2020 festival was canceled due to the pandemic, so I’d only probably make tentative plans at the moment for the 2021 festival just in case they need to change dates or cancel events closer to the event due to the pandemic.

Let us know if you have more questions as you plan your trip! Jessica

BDP Post author

August 10, 2020 at 4:46 pm

A great article with lots of good feedback on visiting the ABQ Balloon Festival. Thanks!

August 11, 2020 at 7:22 am

Hi BDP – Glad our article was helpful and just let us know if you have any questions about planning your trip to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. The event has been canceled for 2020, but will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2021 😉 Best, Jessica

Doug Nurock Post author

April 9, 2020 at 10:40 pm

Hi Travelcats/Jessica, I’m planning on going for the entire festival in 2021. I’ll be coming and staying in a small 19ft RV and will stay in one of the dry camping lots, (will try to get my reservation as soon as they are released Oct 2020). I’m interested in what you think the best volunteer job might be? I’m thinking the balloon chase crew sounds good to me, (I’m fit and mechanically inclined). I like the idea of volunteering to be in the thick of the action with the balloon crews, but I’m not sure how to hook-up with a specific balloon company. I have looked at the volunteer link on the Fest website, but any insider info you can provide on RV camping and volunteer jobs would be appreciated. Thanks! Doug South Lake Tahoe, CA

April 10, 2020 at 11:35 am

That is fantastic and we may see you there as we are hoping to be at the 2021 Albuquerque Balloon Festival as they will be celebrating their 50 year anniversary!

Being able to stay for the whole event is great as you won’t have to worry about missing out on days when they will inevitably have to cancel.

Yes, the main tip for RV / camping is to just know what kind of RV spot you want and book it as soon as you know your dates. RVing is a popular way to stay and enjoy the event, and spots sell out far in advance every year. The weekends always go first. They normally open booking a day or so after the prior event ends. So I’d just mark your calendar.

For volunteering, the balloon chase crews can be fun. Note that we haven’t specifically done the volunteer program but we have helped on the chase crew for balloon events before for pilots we know.

For the ABQ Chase Crew volunteering, you would need to do a brief training and then you’d be responsible for helping the pilot in whatever way they need on the field and then afterward once the balloon lands. So this generally means helping to unpack the balloon on the field and holding it while it inflates, and then later riding in the truck along with the rest of the crew for the pilot you are assigned to, going to wherever the balloon lands, and helping move, pack up, and transport the balloon onto a truck so it can be taken back to the field.

You don’t choose a specific crew or balloon, but you would be instead assigned by the volunteer committee to a pilot each day. Some pilots come with their own chase crew (most local pilots certainly do) so don’t need any volunteers whereas others (especially those from further away) often need the extra hands. Some pilots fly every day but most only fly on certain days of the event.

Another option since you are planning to stay at the RV park is to volunteer for the RV parking/registration since you will be there anyway. That could be an easy option for you.

The volunteering guidelines change a little each year so do check before registering. The volunteering forms normally are put online in the summer months for the upcoming event. Generally, you need to agree to work for at least 4 sessions to be eligible and then you get free entry into the event each day as well as some free meals and other goodies.

Hope that helps, and do let us know if you have further questions as you plan your visit!

Berkman Manuel Post author

December 29, 2019 at 4:32 pm

I’m so glad I came across your site, really great tips. We are planning our trip for 2020 for the full 9 days. My wife has had this on her bucket list for some time. Her bday is 10/05 and thought it would be a great 50th! To put the cherry on the proverbial cake I would like to get her up in a balloon. Is it possible to book a flight for one of the mass ascension’s? What’s you best advise for getting a balloon ride? Thanks in advance!

December 30, 2019 at 6:02 am

Hi Berkman, Glad that you are going to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta next year, and I am sure that a hot balloon ride would be a very wonderful birthday surprise indeed. So the only company that goes up within the park and takes passengers is the Rainbow Ryders balloons and they usually have several that go up at both sunrise and sunset. They will have balloons scheduled to go up each day of the festival.

If you want to go up during one of the big mass ascensions, I would book a weekend sunrise balloon flight date during the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Or alternatively a Wednesday as there is usually a mass ascension scheduled for Wednesday morning as well. I would not book for the very last day of the festival as if it is cancelled due to weather, you won’t have a chance to reschedule to go up during the event. So I’d book for the very first weekend for the best chance.

It looks like Rainbow Ryders already has their balloon flights up for next year and if you have any questions you can always contact them for more info.

Just be sure to dress up warm (layers are best)and wear sensible shoes for your flight!

Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have further questions.

October 11, 2021 at 2:31 pm

Hello Jessica!

I can’t thank you enough for your tips and resources on the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta.

We just got back from the 2021 Fiesta. It was truly a trip of a lifetime for us. If I could sum it up in one word, it would be “magnificent”! However, words and pictures cannot express the awe of seeing that many balloons in the air at the sametime.

We even went up with Rainbow Ryders on Wednesday morning. Bucket List checked! We had a great time with our pilot Paul.

From our first day on Sunday to our last day on Friday, the weather was perfect! Never got too cold or too hot.

Thanks again for your fabulous website, it truly made planning our trip so much more easier. Keep up the awesome work y’all are doing.

Berkman Manuel Youngsville, LA

October 12, 2021 at 5:42 am

Hi Berkman,

I am so happy to hear that you had a great time at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta this past week! I am happy to hear that the weather was great and the balloons were able to go up during your visit (definitely not always the case!). Going up in a hot air balloon for the first time is definitely magical and glad you enjoyed your flight with Rainbow Ryders.

Also glad that our article was helpful in planning your trip to the festival, we love hearing that our advice was helpful to others!

Kelly Kukowski Post author

October 22, 2019 at 7:29 pm

Love this article! We are planning to go next year and wondering when is early enough to book a place to stay, etc? When do things start filling up? Also, we are thinking of going 3-4 nights but will have 2 little ones in tow. I want to see a mass ascension and catch a night glow but want to avoid the weekends for the most part. Thinking either Sunday afternoon to Wednesday afternoon or Wednesday afternoon to Saturday (catch Saturday’s mass ascension and then head out). Is the latter time frame better with more chances to catch a night glow? Do the schedules stay the same for the most part from year to year?

October 23, 2019 at 11:23 am

If you are planning an RV, I’d book as soon as you know your dates as the RV spots fill up very quickly and even the waiting list usually gets filled up well in advance.

But if you are just booking a hotel or motel, then I’d just try to book several months in advance if you can. You don’t need to book now, although some people do book a year in advance to ensure they get a specific hotel. But even if you wait fairly last minute, you can still find lodging in Albuquerque, but it is whatever is left and is usually expensive.

Yes, the schedules pretty much stay the same each year, so I’d expect 2020 to be similar to 2019. Yes, I think 3 to 4 nights is a perfect amount of time to make sure you get to see a couple events and have back-up dates in case of bad weather.

The weekdays are definitely usually less crowded, so are nice days for attending with kids. Kids (and most adults!) often love the Special Shape Balloons and although some of the Special Shapes usually go up every day of the festival, Thursdays are usually the Special Shapes day. So depending on how old your kids are, they may enjoy that one.

Jamie Simpson Post author

October 8, 2019 at 4:47 pm

How were you both considered media for the event?

October 9, 2019 at 12:57 am

Hi Jamie, We have attended the Balloon Fiesta multiple times, both as regular visitors and as media. If you are interested in media accreditation for the event, you need to apply for it well in advance once the applications open on the Fiesta website (generally several months before the event). After the application submission period ends, the Media staff will make decisions on all the applications.

If you are media and haven’t applied or gotten approval, other than access to the Media tent and free entry passes, the actual experience is about the same. We’ve attended several hot air balloon events as media, and unlike some, the experience as Media is about the same as that of a Visitor as visitors are allowed on the launching field here.

Enjoy the Fiesta, Jessica

Abigail Post author

October 7, 2019 at 10:31 am

This post is so, very informative. Thank you, Jessica! I was also hoping for some clarification. If any of this is a duplicate comment, I apologize.

I saw you mentioned one park and ride ticket is only valid per session. We were planning on hanging out at the festival all day (Dawn Patrol to the fireworks show). You say this means we would need to purchase an additional park and ride pass to return at the end of the day? Is there such thing as a reentry stamp if we had to leave the festival at any point?

We would love to explore the surrounding areas to view the ascent the next day. Do you have any exact locations you recommend to view the “splash and dash” on the Rio Grande? We considered bringing kayaks, but think it may be easier to run out to the river some place, but don’t know the best public areas to access. And if that winery is near, I’d love more details on that! Was it Corrales Winery??

I am traveling from Denver, so I appreciate all of the details. Thanks for being so helpful!

October 7, 2019 at 11:22 am

Hi Abigail,

Glad this article has been helpful in planning your visit 😉

Yes, the Park & Ride tickets are sold for a specific session (morning or evening) for a specific date. So they may not honor your return ticket if it is for a different session; that is something you would need to ask the Balloon Fiesta staff.

However, I think a bigger issue is that there is not really anything to do at the Field on most days between sessions. The morning balloon launches are generally over by 11am or earlier. Evening events don’t normally start until 6:00pm. The only day there is a major afternoon event is on the date of the Music Fiesta (another ticket is required to attend this) so that might make sense if you are going to do the Music Fiesta event as well. But on any other day, I would not recommend trying to stay all day at the field. I’d go do something else in the city and then return for the evening session.

If you leave and come back for another session, you will need another admission ticket. Your Park & Ride ticket includes your admission to the festival for the corresponding session.

I am not sure the chances of seeing a “splash and dash” but certainly balloons do regularly float along and near the Rio Grande. It can be lovely to see on a nice day. Your best bet is probably the guided kayak tours that focus on that, there are a few companies offering them now and the guides are pretty good at trying to predict where the balloons will be that day.

But on some days, balloons drift in the other direction so you wouldn’t see much from the Rio Grande, so it just depends on the weather and wind conditions. Because of that, there is no particular location I would recommend if you plan to explore on foot, just anywhere along the Rio Grande that allows public access that is north of I-40 and west of 1-25. You may want to head off and walk along the Paseo del Bosque Trail which runs along the river and is a paved multi-use trail.

There are a number of small vineyards in that general area, I am not sure which one is pictured but it is just a shot taken as we were walking along the road (not from within the vineyard itself). The vineyards are on private land so you are much better off heading to a public area along the river as a place to wait and watch.

There are several wineries in Corrales and surrounds that do public tastings, so that may be a thing to consider doing after your balloon watching adventures! Although New Mexico is more known for its craft beer (lots of good craft beer places in ABQ) than wine, wine has been produced in the state since the 17th century.

Hope that helps and wishing you a great Balloon Fiesta! Jessica

Tony Post author

October 5, 2019 at 3:26 pm

Our Experience at the 2019 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta We planned well in advance of our trip down to the Balloon Fiesta Park by looking for the preferred session we wanted to see, Mass Ascension, checking on the weather, calm with winds at under 5 mph and no rain, looking for the easiest access to handicap parking, Alameda entrance passing right past the Museum, and finally giving ourselves plenty of time to get down to the park, 4:00am should do it… First in a series of problems, travel down Paseo Del Norte to 2nd Street exit never worked out. All three lanes of Paseo Del Norte were all funneling into 2nd Street’s one (1) lane exit, blocking traffic for miles. We never reached the exit as our driver had to stop for a bladder break, so stopping on the should was our only option. We naturally had to drive all the way to Coors then back up Alameda. At 6:00am, from the car we could barely catch a glimpse of the Dawn Patrol going up. Our handicap brother, Eugene, did not see the first balloons go up, nor did he see any balloons light up for Krispy Kreme Morning Glow, nor the Opening Ceremonies. In fact, by the time we got a parking spot with handicap accessibility, any balloons that may or may not have gone up were already back on the ground (I only heard that there were balloons that went up because I was told that they went up). Finding handicap parking was confusing enough, then add to that the variety of directions the patrol and parking attendants were giving us was un called for. A plan of attack is needed for this one so that everyone is on the same page. The amount of people attending the first session was phenomenal, 886,307 according to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta website. This only made going from point A (the entrance to the park) to point B (the Balloon Field) extra difficult. Let me ask you this… Why do people who have 2 perfectly functional feet attached to legs have to stop in the middle of the paved walkway to take a picture or get someone’s attention instead of walking 10 feet in either direction to stand on the lawn, allowing others who are trying to get to point B a chance to see their favorite balloon (BTW – Darth Vader was my pick)? Without going into too much discussion, is there a health code standard for minimum square feet per person in crowd sizes? I mean fitting 886,307 people on 80 acres or 3.48 million square feet is like 3.9 square feet per person. A wheelchair can’t function with that much space! How much of this space is paved for wheelchairs? Where do people more than likely want to travel? (This one I can answer… on the paved surfaces) So the traffic was horrendous, the handicap parking still had some issues, the balloons didn’t go up as planned (let’s call this one Mass Inflation – just like the financial status of the nation), movement throughout the park was difficult (a unmoving violation if I ever saw one), and to top it off, after attempting to contact the Balloon Fiesta and the Ticketing Agents for the Balloon Fiesta (because online it states “In case of a weathered out session, retain your ticket as a raincheck for admission. You may present your used/scanned ticket for admission at the Park admission gates.”, see https://balloonfiesta.com/Purchase-Tickets ) in the hopes to being able to appease Eugene’s annoyed frame of mind by bringing him to another session later in the week to which I was bluntly told they would not even consider doing that! I’ve never had such an awful experience before. I hereby bequeath unto this event the following title… International Buffoon Fiasco! I will never set foot in this park again! They have lost a patron for life!

October 6, 2019 at 2:43 am

I am very sorry to hear that you had such a negative experience when attending the Opening Session of the Balloon Fiesta. Yes, the Opening Weekend is often the busiest days at the Balloon Fiesta.

The road/lane/exit closures and traffic flow change each year and can cause extra havoc. I am sorry to hear the balloons didn’t go up on your visit, that is definitely a big disappointment after over 2 hours in traffic. I saw that the heavy fog grounded most of the balloons, but a few pilots decided to go up but the vast majority did not. Then they were stopped from launching as the clouds became worse and conditions became too dangerous. Although many pilots did keep their balloons inflated for visitors to see on the ground.

They definitely honored tickets last year for canceled sessions, I am wondering if they are not counting it as a canceled session since some balloons did go up? But since only a few balloons went up, I would think they would let you use your ticket to go to another session. That is disappointing to hear if not.

For the disabled parking issues and paved areas being too crowded for navigating wheelchairs, I think that is definitely a complaint you should make directly to the Balloon Fiesta staff. I know that the staff do try to make sure the event is as accessible as possible.

There were not 886,307 people at the First Session though. That number on the home page of the Balloon Fiesta website is the total number of visitors who entered the Fiesta Park in 2018 over the 9 days of the event. Yes, there is no way the event (or parking area) could accommodate that number of people all in one session!

Sorry again to hear about your experience, and that you won’t be giving it a second chance. But thanks for taking the time to share it as it may be helpful to other readers.

Stacey Fisher Post author

October 2, 2019 at 7:52 am

Can you bring collapsible wagons on the park and ride to the park?

October 4, 2019 at 10:36 am

Hi Stacey, I think as long as you can fold them up and hold them on your lap in your seat, you should be fine. There is just not a lot of extra room for storage on the buses. Best, Jessica

Jennifer Post author

October 1, 2019 at 6:47 pm

Thank you for the detailed post, this is SO helpful! This is probably a silly question, but I’m headed to the fiesta this weekend and am clueless of how to pack. I know you said layers, but do I go jeans, short sleeve and jacket or long dress jacket? Sandals or closed toe shoes? We’re bringing our 2 year old and he’s set (I think?) but I have no clue what to pack for myself. We live in Boston so not used to this weather at all!

October 4, 2019 at 10:29 am

Hi Jennifer,

For layers, I’d probably wear a short sleeved tee, a long-sleeved shirt or sweater, and then a heavier fleece or jacket on top. Jeans or any kind of practical pants should be fine. If it looks like rain, I’d wear a rain jacket with a hood (or just bring a poncho in case). It can get cool, especially before sunrise or after sunset at the events. I am normally cold in the mornings but it is generally fairly warm by the end of the morning. Just check the weather forecast for each day before you head out, but layers are always a good idea.

I’d definitely recommend closed-toed practical shoes. You’ll be walking around a lot and the surfaces include dirt and grass (the field) as well as paved areas.

Enjoy the Fiesta! Jessica

Sarah Post author

September 25, 2019 at 9:35 am

We’ll be attending the Balloon Fest next weekend. Is it possible to view the Saturday evening Night Glow and Fireworks show from outside the park? Is that recommended? Do the balloons take flight while lit up? Or do they just glow from a stationary spot? We’re doing a balloon ride on Saturday AM that launches from outside of the park, so we’re wondering if the Saturday evening events are worth dealing with the park entry drama.

Thank you for your help!

September 26, 2019 at 1:07 pm

No, you can’t really see the Night Glow events and fireworks from outside of the Balloon Fiesta Park. During the Night Glow a line of balloons line up and do the glow. You can see photos in our article above of this. The balloons are set up and do the “burns” to music. Then there is often a laser show and/or fireworks following the Night Glow. The balloon are not launched and do not leave the field during the Night Glows.

So if you want to see a Night Glow, you will need to go to the field. But whether that is worth seeing for you on that evening, is up to you. The weekend events are always busier than the weekday events so it will be busy, especially if the weather is good.

For the hot air balloon flights from outside the park (not by Rainbow Ryders), they normally take off about 5 miles from the park during the fiesta. Hopefully, you will get good weather and have a great launch!

Antoinette Armijo Post author

September 24, 2019 at 7:22 pm

Very detailed article. Not sure if I can announce here, but, we have an RV space for rent in the new VIP North Lot, adjacent to the launch field, with or without an RV. Serious inquiries call or text 505.490.3886 for more infi. Available Oct. 4-7.

September 27, 2019 at 9:28 am

Hi Antoinette, Glad you enjoyed our article. I am not sure that Fiesta RV spots are transferrable as I believe that you need to present your reservation details and an ID at check-in. I would contact the Fiesta RV folks directly about this, and anyone wishing to buy one should definitely check to see if this is permitted. Best, Jessica

Regina Post author

September 22, 2019 at 5:51 pm

I’m so glad & thankful for your post. It had lots of helpful information about our upcoming trip. My son is so excited to see the balloon festival (he only sees it in Youtube and he’s a big fan). I was just wondering about how Park and Ride works… We have a ticket for Sunday (Oct 6) morning with checkin at Coronado Center. What time does the bus return to Coronado Center? And what if we wanted to stay until the evening fireworks… do we have to purchase another ticket? Hope you can help me. :). Thank you!

September 23, 2019 at 3:32 am

Yes, so to get to the event you just need to bring your Park & Ride ticket and check in before the appointed time on your ticket. You’ll also need to keep your ticket to get the ride back later in the morning. I’d ask your driver when the last buses will be leaving the event for the morning, but generally everyone leaves once all the balloons have left the field.

Once the event is underway, the shuttle buses will start leaving to return to the pick-up locations every 10 to 15 minutes so you just need to make your way back to the shuttle bus area and be sure to get into the correct line to get back to the Coronado Center (there are 4 different Park & Ride locations this year). These are clearly signed and we didn’t have any issues finding them.

The morning sessions usually end by around 10:00am and usually there is not much going on between the morning and evening sessions at the field, so you will probably want to leave and return. Yes, you do need to get a different Park & Ride ticket for the evening session if you plan to use the shuttles a second time. The Park & Ride tickets are sold per session (not per day) and also include your event admission for that session.

September 24, 2019 at 8:55 am

Thank you very much for your reply. You are so generous. Please don’t stop being this helpful. 🙂 I wish you and your blog continued success and for us, an awesome trip!

Naomi Panarella Post author

September 18, 2019 at 11:13 am

Howdy from Texas! This article was so great! Thank you for putting it all together, I found it it to be so helpful!! I plan to attend this year 2019 as I was recently diagnosed with an degenerative eye disease that slowly taking my vision, needless to say I find myself against a timeline of all the extraordinary things this world and life has to offer. The balloon fest has been on my list and it is finally coming true! I am truly excited to see whatever my vision will allow to take in this magnificent experience! Thanks again!

September 18, 2019 at 11:36 am

I am very sorry to hear about the disease, but I am glad that you are planning a visit to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. I am sure it is an event you will remember and it is such a very visually beautiful display. I recommend going for several days if you can so that you are sure to see at least a couple of events in case of poor weather.

New Mexico is a stunning state for landscapes. In Albuquerque, I’d also recommend a trip up the Sandia Tramway for some nice views over the city, a wonder around Old Town, a drive along Route 66 / Central Avenue at night to see the neon sights, and perhaps a visit to the unique Kimo Theater. Nearby you can enjoy the beautiful art and old architecture with a wander around Santa Fe (you can drive [perhaps take the scenic Turquoise Trail] or take the convenient train from Albuquerque). Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument is also a unique place for a hike and not too far away.

If you have any questions as you plan your trip, just let us know and we are happy to try to help!

Christine caponi Post author

September 15, 2019 at 2:57 pm

HI. Just wondering on chances for parking at the event on Sunday morning? We are combing from Santa Fe and are willing to make the sacrifice to be there early to get a parking space. If we arrive in Albuquerque by 4:30am do you think we would be ok? We would also have Wednesday as an option but were thinking of making a day of it and seeing the night glow which would only be available to us on Sunday. Any thoughts or advice? Would it be better to buy shuttle tickets and do the park and ride? I am assuming we would need to be there at the same time to avoid traffic?

September 15, 2019 at 4:26 pm

Hi Christine,

Yes, you would definitely be fine if you plan to arrive at the fiesta parking around 4:30am. The lots do sometimes fill up, particularly on weekend mornings, but never that early. They only open them to at 4:00am.

I think either of those options should work fine, parking or taking the Park & Ride. Since you are already driving from Santa Fe, parking at the event probably makes the most sense rather than driving all the way into the city, parking, and taking a shuttle. If you do decide to the Park & Ride, the closest Park & Ride if coming from Santa Fe is probably the Cottonwood Mall one.

The weekends are going to be busier than weekdays of course so I’d try to get there before 5:00 am or take the first Park & Ride shuttles offered for that morning. You need to book the Park & Ride shuttle tickets in advance or for event parking, just have cash ready for that morning.

Hope that helps, and wishing you a great time at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta!

Courtney Post author

September 13, 2019 at 8:06 pm

When trying to hit all 50 states with my boyfriend and NM being driving distance from Dallas, I found this as a suggested thing to do a few months ago and didn’t think much of it. As I spur of the moment googled ‘Things to do in ABQ’ while being bored on a flight, I came across this post and immediately booked us a ride on the closing Saturday (AM) with Rainbow Riders! This article has been so helpful and I couldn’t be more excited. We’ll drive in Thursday afternoon and on the agenda is Friday Session AM and then we’ve got our ride and the Ryders Club experience for Saturday’s AM session. Praying for good weather! Is it worth going back for the PM Session? We’ll hit Santa Fe on our way home.

September 14, 2019 at 5:17 am

Hi Courtney,

Glad you came across our Balloon Fiesta guide and I am sure you’ll have a great time in Albuquerque. We’ve done the drive from Dallas to Albuquerque and it is about 10 hours of driving. It is probably best to stop along the way for a night to make it a more pleasant experience; we stopped overnight in Amarillo.

I would definitely recommend leaving your Sunday morning free, just in case Saturday’s ride is canceled, there looks like there is good availability for Sunday (as of now) so you could hopefully reschedule if needed. But hopefully that won’t be necessary but always good to have the option.

For Saturday PM session, I guess it just depends on if you are interested in seeing a Night Glow event with fireworks or not. It is a different atmosphere and experience than the morning launch events. I’d probably leave that time open in your itinerary so you can decide how you feel that afternoon. It may also depend on weather and such whether you want to go or not.

If you haven’t booked a hotel yet, I would do that soon as prices will continue to increase the closer it gets to the Fiesta. We provide a number of recs in the article.

Wishing you a great Fiesta, Jessica

Linda Overton Post author

September 12, 2019 at 8:46 pm

Love your website and info to help me with my first Hot Air Balloon Festival in Albuquerque. Friend and I arrive Thursday prior to event and will spend first 2 nights in Santa Fe. Then we arrive at our Albuquerque hotel appx. 2 1/2 miles from the Hot Air Balloon Museum. We have rented a vehicle as it was recommended in order to get to the Museum rather than try an Uber, doesn’t seem Uber is very popular there. We’ve booked tickets for Sunday morning sunrise viewing and breakfast as well as the evening viewing and dinner at The Balloon Museum as I read these are great events. Do you agree? This trip was booked rather late, just 3 weeks ago so I feel fortunate to have found an ok hotel that close as well as tickets to the Museum events. An employee at the Museum advised that we do both events in 1 day since it’s early morning and late afternoon, Sunday. We depart late Tuesday afternoon. Is there anything you suggest we do as far as the festival on Monday or on Tuesday morning? I very much appreciate the information and tips you are giving!

September 13, 2019 at 1:10 pm

Both Uber and Lyft are available in Albuquerque. The issue is that during the balloon festival, they are not able to drop passengers off directly at the festival (there is about a 15 minute walk this year I think) and there is surge pricing, so it is not always the best option. So often the festival staff recommend Park & Ride if possible. But since you are going to the Balloon Museum events, then driving yourself works well as I believe you will receive a parking pass with your tickets to park in the Museum’s parking. Be sure to bring that with you and show it to the parking officials so they can direct you to the correct parking area (it is before the main visitor parking areas for the event).

I think the Balloon Museum events are really nice if you want to enjoy a meal and a nice viewing area of the festival away from the field and crowds. The indoor area is pretty spacious (and protected from the weather) and the outdoor area has some good views over the field. The museum itself is really informative and interesting.

The museum is adjacent to the field so the outdoor area has a great view over the field, but you won’t be able to get close-up views or walk amongst the balloons. So if you want to do that, I’d plan to go Monday morning to do that perhaps?

Torey Post author

September 7, 2019 at 8:57 pm

Thanks for sharing so much information AND the links you included. We are going to the Fiesta this year and I really wish I had read your blog before we began making plans. We thought it would be a good idea to avoid the weekends so we planned to get in Sunday afternoon and leave Thursday and made our B & B reservations months ago. Sounds like we should have planned to be there for one of the weekends. We are also staying a little outside of town but it seems that could make the commute worse. We have already decided that this year will be a learning experience and we may need to plan another trip to the Fiesta!

September 8, 2019 at 2:36 am

So glad you enjoyed our ABQ Balloon Fiesta guide. It can definitely be hard to choose when to come, but it is good that you booked your accommodation well in advance and are staying for several days, so very good chance to see the balloons.

You are still staying during a scheduled mass ascension, so I’d be sure to go on Wednesday morning to see that. The weekdays are less crowded than the weekends, although still busy, so can be nice to visit without the huge weekends crowds. So I’d try to see a regular weekday launch maybe on Monday (if canceled you can head back Tuesday) and then go on Wednesday morning for the mass ascension. Then you have the rest of the afternoons/evenings for exploring Albuquerque. If you are arriving on Sunday afternoon, I’d check into your B&B and then maybe head to the field for the Night Glow as that will be your only chance to see one I think.

The regular launches are also great and there is just something magical about watching hot air balloons and so I think you’ll enjoy any of the events you choose to attend. I think it will nice to see a smaller launch on Monday or Tuesday and then see a larger mass ascension on Wednesday

In terms of accommodation, it just really depends on what side of Albuquerque you are in, and how far it is away from the park (or Park & Ride). If you are further away, it just means an earlier start 😉

Wishing you a wonderful first Balloon Fiesta! Jessica

Danee Spencer Post author

September 4, 2019 at 3:13 pm

Do folks ever give up/sell their Chaser or Gondola tickets as the event gets closer? If so, where is the best to check? FB Marketplace, Craigslist, etc?

September 4, 2019 at 3:46 pm

If Chasers’ tickets and Gondola tickets are sold out for a session you want to attend, it will likely be difficult to find tickets as they only sell a limited number for each session.

Yes, it is possible to buy them elsewhere from someone and since they are not refundable, some people would like want to sell their tickets if they can no longer use them. But there is no reliable secondary place to purchase them that I am aware. But yes, Facebook or Craigslist are two good places you might check online and you might also look into RV club message boards. It is a very popular event among RVers.

If you live in the ABQ area, you may be able to find someone locally who has extra tickets. When I lived there, we knew people who gave away/sold tickets to people locally.

You can also try checking back on the event website to see if more become available online in the future but the tickets are non-refundable so this doesn’t happen very often.

Note that while buyers are able to print the Chasers’ Club tickets at home, the Gondola Club tickets come with a scannable physical wristband and printed parking passes that are mailed to the purchaser so you would need to be sure to have both of these. I would be very careful of any secondary sales through third party sellers for these as if you buy a fraudulent ticket (or used one), you’ll be denied entry.

Good luck! Jessica

Henry AT fotoeins Post author

August 31, 2019 at 8:12 pm

Hey, we were also at the 2018 event, for our 1st ever visit to both city and the Balloon Fiesta. We attended the morning sessions on days 1 and 3; our planned attendance of the evening session on day 2 was cancelled due to high winds. We stayed in the south near the airport, and we got caught in the traffic chaos and massive queues on the opening morning and we missed attending the morning glow and launch, although we caught a bit of both from the park-and-ride lot at Cottonwood Mall, where many hundreds (thousands?) were in the queue waiting for the crawl of shuttle buses to come and go. Clearly we were not alone “caught in the maul”, as this ABQ Journal article attests: ( https://www.abqjournal.com/1231600/fiesta-attempts-to-tackle-traffic-tie-ups.html ). We were on the festival grounds for a few hours, but when we we saw the very very very long queues for shuttles leaving the grounds. We decided to walk to the corner of Balloon Museum Drive NE and Alameda Blvd NE where a friendly car-share driver was actually available (and waited for us). The rate was clearly higher than the norm, but completely worth *not* waiting in line for a departing shuttle-bus. But when all is said and done, seeing the balloons live prepped, launched, and land was a magical experience. We also had a great time in Albuquerque, and we liked very much what we saw throughout the city and area. We missed out on some things, but we’d love to come back.

September 1, 2019 at 4:51 am

Thanks for sharing your experience at the Balloon Fiesta last year, it is really is a magical experience and glad you enjoyed it.

Sorry to hear you had issues with traffic and long waits for the Park & Ride shuttles. Every year traffic is bad, but last year the Park & Ride shuttles also got really stuck at in traffic as well and were not able to accommodate all the people who wanted to use them. But they have changed the Park & Ride shuttle for this year where all tickets are pre-booked so they know how many riders there will be and there are set departure times. It will limit the tickets sold but it should be a better experience for all those planning to use the shuttles.

But for anyone driving or taking the Park & Ride shuttle, we definitely recommend leaving early and booking the earliest shuttles for the sessions you want to visit. And know that the opening Saturday is often the worst in terms of traffic and crowds, so be really prepared on that day or consider going on a less busy date.

Hope you get a chance to return some day! Jessica

Jeff Jost Post author

August 25, 2019 at 1:39 pm

Thank you so much for the wealth of information! I’m not able to make it this year but I’m already planning 2020 and with this blog I hope we’ll be ahead of the game. We’re bringing our RV and two dogs so we’ve got a little more planning and logistics as we’d like to stay for several days. Now to figure out which of the RV lots will be the best to reserve!

On another note, Julie (posted Aug 11, 2019) asked about “stickers” all over the Standard RV Sites – I think she means foxtails (or maybe burr weeds) that can be harmful to pets. Now that she mentioned it, I’ll be wondering that too. If the RV parks are just “fields” then it’s likely to have some weeds, dead or alive. If they are paved, there’ll be less of a chance for stickers. Either way, it’s always good to bring a large piece of carpet and set it outside of the RV for them to lay on.

Thank you for putting this together – you are THE most informative Balloon Tycoon under the stars!

August 25, 2019 at 2:30 pm

So glad you are finding our ABQ Balloon Fiesta guide useful! Yes, we’ve been to the balloon fiesta a few times now and have been updating this article for several years.

We’ve never personally stayed at the RV sites, but most I believe are dirt surfaces although I think some near the museum were asphalt when we walked through last year. You choose the lot, but it is rally style parking and you are guided to a specific space when you arrive so you don’t get a lot of choice in where you are parked within the lot.

Ah, when Julie posted, I thought she was referring to stickers (as in adhesive labels) and thought that there was debris from marketing leftover in the fields that dogs may eat. Thanks for clarifying I will go and send her a second reply now. Her question now makes a lot more sense!

The campground is just for the festival so there may very well be goats head stickers / burr weeds nearby. New Mexico has a lot of prickly plants! You can read more about dogs and the goats head stickers in NM here .

I would suspect that such plants are adjacent to the RV parking spaces rather than on them as we didn’t notice much grass on the RV sites themselves at all when we were last there. But this may differ by parking area and year. But given dogs are not allowed on the field or at the event, you will need to walk them around the RV lots and so this could be an issue. Bringing something for them to lie on sounds like a good idea and you may want to get protective paw booties for your dog to protect their paws when walking.

The booking for on-site RV sites for the following year normally goes online just after the ending of the prior year’s event. So for 2020, I’d consider booking in October if you know when you want to visit. The RV spaces are normally fully booked many months in advance and there are currently over 2500 people on the waitlist which they have closed.

There are of course several other campsites in Albuquerque that cost a bit less. But the convenience of being able to walk (or take a free shuttle) to the field is really nice rather than battling traffic is worth it for many. You can also often see the balloon floating over the RV sites, depending on the direction of the wind.

Hope that helps and wishing you a wonderful trip in 2020! Jessica

David Perkins Post author

August 21, 2019 at 3:24 pm

Thanks for all the very useful information. I note in most of the pictures that the vast majority of attendees are standing. ? Did you see many people seated or bring in camp chairs? Would you advise against bring a camp chair to the event?

August 22, 2019 at 3:42 am

Yes, once the balloons start being inflated and launched, it is better to stand up and walk around as things keep changing/moving on the ground. If you are on the field, you’ll probably get better views from wandering around. The balloons are obviously large and if you are sitting, it can be easy to have a restricted view if you are fairly close to them. Once the balloons are in the air, the views are the same from anywhere on the field, whether you are sitting or standing.

But if you want or need to sit down, you certainly can, I’d just set up somewhere a bit away. If you are on the edge of the field or just outside it (e.g., Chasers’ and Gondola Club) then you can find a nice view over a large part of the field.

I think more people bring blankets or chairs to use in waiting for events and in between events is what we have noticed as there can be quite a bit of waiting, especially if you get there early or there are delays. More people do sit though during the evening events than the morning events.

In deciding whether or not to bring them, I think it just depends on how heavy they are (do you want to carry it around for a few hours?) and how much you think you’ll use them. You can always bring a blanket or cushion instead of a full chair if you want that option but don’t want to carry camp chairs.

Amy Elrod Post author

September 12, 2019 at 6:52 am

We were there last year for the first time. We took our lawn chairs to the evening events. We got there early, set up chairs and just enjoyed being outside waiting for fireworks & balloon glow. My husband actually watch the TX A&M game on his phone & I read a book. We took cheap chairs from Academy so that if they happened to disappear it wasn’t a big deal. No one bothered our stuff if we happened to get up and walk around. The sunset was incredible & they had a live band playing. It was too windy for the balloons to inflate & glow but they fireworks were great & we thoroughly enjoyed our evening. We are going again this year with some friends.

Melissa Post author

August 20, 2019 at 10:18 am

If we go to both morning and evening sessions and use the park and ride, do we have to pay for park and ride per sessions even if we don’t leave and our car stays put the whole time?

For instance, lets say we go to morning ascend then take an Uber to the museum or somewhere close by like a restaurant etc., then come back for evening activities. My car didn’t leave the park and ride parking lot, and I did not use one trip back and forth from the parking lot to the event. Do I still need to pay for two park and rides?

August 20, 2019 at 10:35 am

Hi Melissa,

I don’t know the answer to this question 100%. But I am guessing that they would let you use your morning session ticket to take the evening bus back to the Park & Ride parking lot. The buses from the parking lots to the event will have a booked capacity but the return buses will run more often back to the lots to accommodate people leaving at different times.

I would call the Balloon Fiesta team to ask about this before you book just to be sure. If they say it is OK, you might want to ask the bus driver in the morning if you need any special ticket to get back on the bus for coming back in the evening.

If you contact the Fiesta team, we’d love to hear what you find out as it might help future readers.

Hieu H Phan Post author

August 19, 2019 at 10:54 pm

Hi Jessica, wonderful blog! Me, my husband, and 10 and 6 year old girls will be coming to the Balloon Fiesta this year for the first time. We will be flying in to ABQ very late Friday night and plan to go the Mass Ascension opening day. We are thinking of getting to the parking lot at 4:30 am when it opens and then just napping in the car until the festivities start. I assume this is okay? That same Saturday evening we’re planning to go to the Balloon Glow. Do you know if we can bring a blanket and sit out somewhere on the field for the Mass Ascension and Balloon Glow? I’m considering the Chaser’s Club tickets but don’t want to be confined to a particular area. Thanks!

August 20, 2019 at 7:01 am

The visitor parking lots open at 4:30am so the timing should be fine. I think you would be OK trying to nap in the car (unless security asks you not to do so), but it might not be the best place to try to sleep. The Dawn Patrol usually starts at 6:00am. After parking, you will need to get admission tickets and go through security to get into the actual event.

If you think you are not going to get much sleep with your late night flight and early wake up, you might consider going on Sunday morning’s event instead of Saturdays. If you are all very tired after traveling, especially the kids, you may not enjoy the event as much. Just something to consider if you are in Albuquerque for a few days.

Yes, you can bring a blanket to sit on and you can place on the field, you just need to place it away from the balloons on the field so you are not in the way of the balloons and safety officials.

The Chasers’ Club tickets are already sold out I believe for all evening sessions at this year’s Fiesta so I don’t think those are an option. But with those tickets, they give you access to the Chasers’ Club area and you are allowed to go wherever you want in the public viewing area. So they don’t confine you to a particular area if you want to explore elsewhere, but most people with these tickets do stay in the Chasers’ Club seating area.

Hope that helps and wishing you a great Fiesta!

simon max hill Post author

June 14, 2021 at 10:37 pm

I had a similar idea about taking a nap – but I was thinking of setting a blanket out. Do people do that?

You mention blankets as an option but I worry if I go to sleep on the ground I’ll be in the way of balloons, people walking, etc.

June 15, 2021 at 7:16 am

Some people do set up blankets and folding chairs around the edges of the Balloon Fiesta field but out of the way of the balloonists and other activities. This can be especially good for those with kids or people with reduced mobility who can’t stand for long periods of time.

But I’m not really sure the ground is a great place to sleep as there are a lot of people and activity going on during the sessions. I’d definitely be sure to hide/secure any valuables. But if you are driving, your vehicle is probably a more secure/quiet place to take a nap.

Susan Long Post author

August 19, 2019 at 4:56 am

Thank for such an informative website! We are planning to attend this year and would like to know if the mass assention the closing weekend is as large as opening weekend ?

August 19, 2019 at 6:03 am

Yes, the morning mass ascension balloon events are all similar. It is just up to the pilots if they are present and want to launch on a particular morning.

There may be small differences but really as a visitor, you are unlikely to notice the difference between even 400 balloons and 500 balloons. In both cases, that is a lot of balloons on the field and in the air!

The mass ascensions (normally both weekend mornings and Wednesdays) are all generally about the same size. It is normal for 400 to 600 balloons to go up over 1.5 to 2 hours on a mass ascension if the weather is good. However, bad flight conditions can mean less balloons will launch if they get the yellow light (up to pilot’s discretion to launch), but there is obviously no way to predict this.

There are smaller mass balloon launches on the other days of the week and one that just includes Special Shapes balloons (normally between 70 to 100 special shaped balloons launch).

Enjoy the ABQ Balloon Fiesta! Jessica

Julie Post author

August 11, 2019 at 4:12 pm

I recall reading detailed information on the RV parking, specifically stickers all over the standard RV sites. I can’t seem to find that information now. We have two dogs and stickers are a major concern. Where can I find that info?

August 12, 2019 at 2:25 am

Hi Julie, You did not read that on our website, so it must have been on another website. I am not sure what you mean by stickers on the RV sites and have not heard about this before – it seemed like any other RV parking area in a field to us when we were there last year. If you have a reservation for the RV site, I would contact the staff in charge of the RV site for the upcoming festival about your concerns ([email protected]).

Note, all RV sites for the Balloon Fiesta on the weekends are fully booked for 2019 and the waiting list is also full.

Dogs are allowed on the RV site if kept on a leash, but are not allowed on the Balloon Fiesta Field.

August 25, 2019 at 2:40 pm

When I responded to your comment earlier this month, I thought you were asking about stickers (as in adhesive labels) and thought that you had read that there was debris from event marketing leftover in the fields that dogs may eat. But another reader (Jeff, who is planning to stay in a RV with dogs) noted that you probably meant stickers as in weeds. This of course makes much more sense, sorry about that.

The campground is just used for the festival so there may very well be goats head stickers / burr weeds nearby. New Mexico has a lot of prickly plants! You can read more about dogs and the goats head stickers in New Mexico here .

I would suspect that such plants are adjacent to the RV parking spaces rather than on them as we didn’t notice much grass on the RV sites themselves at all when we were last there. But this may differ by parking area. But given dogs are not allowed on the field or at the event, you will need to walk them around the RV lots and so this could be an issue.

You might want to consider bringing something for them to lie on in case they on your site (heavy rug/piece of carpet) and getting protective paw booties for your dogs to protect their paws when walking.

Poppy Post author

July 29, 2019 at 12:55 pm

We will be visiting during part of the festival to care for my 88 y o mother. She lives near Arboleda Senda NE area. She is not able to attend the festival, but where might we drive to see the balloons up during the day?

July 30, 2019 at 1:41 am

Hi Poppy, As discussed in many of the comments and in the article, you can usually see them from many places throughout the city during the Balloon Fiesta. But it depends on the weather and direction of the wind on any particular day of where they will go after launching. You may be able to see them from your mom’s home, but for a better chance I’d recommend perhaps finding a spot to sit outside in the NW part of Albuquerque, such as the North Valley or Rio Rancho. Finding a spot along the Rio Rancho (river) in that area might be a nice idea and take some hot drinks, blankets, snacks, and folding chairs to make yourselves comfortable. Best of luck! Jessica

Bob Bryant Post author

July 25, 2019 at 6:29 am

I’m contemplating a trip to the event this year with my 2 1/2 year old grandson We will be staying with a friend in Santa Fe

First question. Am I wise to bring ear protection ear muffs for my grandson?. He is till somewhat sensitive not load noises like fireworks. I can imagine when hundreds of balloons ignite their burners it can be quite loud

Second question: is there a good and reliable rail and ride or park and ride option from Santa Fe recognizing this has us getting up and to location literally in the middle of the night to make the hour plus trek to Albuquerque to experience the morning launch

July 25, 2019 at 8:45 am

We have never found it to be that loud at the park although it is busy of course. The balloon burners are a little loud but you are normally only close to a handful at any time on foot, but bringing something to muffle sounds is probably a good idea if your grandson may be startled/sensitive to noises. Being prepared is never a bad thing! The fireworks (in the evenings) can of course be loud. You also always have the option to get off the field and move further from noises if he is having any issues with the noise, which is nice as you never feel trapped in one place.

Unfortunately, I don’t think the Rail & Shuttle combo option is likely to be offered by New Mexico Rail Runner this year. They decided not to offer it in 2018 (announcing it only 1 month before the event) and I have not heard anything specific yet for 2019. You can of course drive from Santa Fe and use one of the Park & Ride locations to catch a shuttle to the park but the Park & Ride locations are all in Albuquerque. The other two options would be to drive yourself and park at the field or book a taxi. Your friend in Santa Fe may have some tips as we have only stayed in ABQ when attending.

You could also of course book for one night in ABQ for the night before you want to attend and stay within walking distance of a Park & Ride location (note they only operate on certain dates) or stay within a short drive of the park. Then spend the rest of your visit in Santa Fe with your friend.

July 25, 2019 at 9:37 am

Thank you Very helpful My friend is moving early next month to Santa Fe to begin a job at National Labs in Los Alamos so we’re both virgins to balloon fest

I won’t fly in til afternoon if the 4th so I think I will start scouring for a clean quiet hotel room for the three of us so we can be at the park early without sleep deprivation Never a good thing for a 2 yo even on his best days and behavior. Lol

I haven’t stayed in Albuquerque for 20 years so candidly will reference your blog and see what I can find

Very helpful Thank you

July 25, 2019 at 10:37 am

Hi Bob, Yes, I think staying in Albuquerque for at least one night will make it a lot easier to visit as getting up even earlier (to get from Santa Fe) would not be fun for anyone. We list some hotels within the article that are relatively close to the Balloon Fiesta Park as well as others in Albuquerque – there are lots of options for a range of budgets, just note that rates generally double (or triple) that week.

If you have time in between balloon event stuff, Albuquerque is also a great place to try local New Mexican food and the restaurants are less expensive than Santa Fe restaurants. The Balloon Museum (near the field) is a great museum to learn about ballooning history, the Sandia Tramway may be fun for your grandson, and your friend may be interested in a visit to the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History given his upcoming job (The Bradbury Science Museum in Los Alamos is also very good).

Wishing you a great Fiesta and visit to the Land of Enchantment!

Sharon Jones Post author

July 23, 2019 at 6:40 am

We are only there for 2 days, so are missing seeing a mass ascension. We are there Sunday afternoon and Monday morning. It lists “double ascension” as the event Monday morning. What is that? I can’t find anywhere that tells what that is.

July 25, 2019 at 8:22 am

Hi Sharon, Yes, you will unfortunately miss seeing a morning mass ascension but you will still (fingers crossed the weather is good for you!) get to see a night glow and fireworks on Sunday evening and a morning balloon launch on Mondy where a large number of balloons still launch from the field. It will just not be the hundreds that launch on a mass ascension day. So although there will not be as many balloons, there are normally less visitors on those days and I am sure you will still enjoy it.

For the “double ascension” on Monday morning, the schedule I have (PDF form) just lists Balloon Launch. So I checked with the Balloon Fiesta folks and they say that the double ascension references the two launches that will take place that morning – the morning ascension and the fly in competition. So it will be a normal morning balloon launch followed by the balloon fly in competition.

Hope that helps and wishing you a wonderful Balloon Fiesta! Jessica

Linda Silveira Post author

July 20, 2019 at 2:37 pm

I’ll be there on Sunday October 6th, 2019. I’ll be riding in one of the Rainbow Ryders Balloon’s during the Mass Ascension. They told us to be there by 4:45 – 5:00 AM. I’m staying at the Day’s Inn & Suites located about 2.5 miles away on 6031 Iliff Road Northwest, Albuquerque, (By Ellison St. and Hawkins.) Should I leave my hotel before 4 AM to be there by 4:45- 5 AM? I’m driving to the Park. Also I’ll be arriving at the Airport at 3:00 PM on opening day on Saturday Oct. 5th. Will I be able to catch the fireworks If I leave the hotel by 5 – 6 PM? Do they close admission to the park before 8 PM? How late can I arrive at the park in order to watch the fireworks on the opening day Oct.5th?

July 21, 2019 at 10:30 am

Hi Linda, I think that since you are pretty close to the park, you should be able to leave by 4:00 or even a bit later and still comfortably be inside the park between 4:45 and 5:00. The gates do not open to the public until 4:30am so I don’t think you can park before then so I would not arrive before that time.

The park opens for the evening sessions at 3:00pm I think and the night glow on the 5th starts at 6:00pm, so I would recommend trying to be there by 5:00pm or 5:30pm if you can. I am not sure how late you can arrive but most people try to be there by 6:00pm as the police will begin modifying traffic flows for outbound traffic once the glow event is underway. The main event is the night glow as that is when some of the balloons are inflated (normally just one balloon, the Canon balloon [the sponsor] is inflated during the fireworks). The fireworks will start soon after the night glow ends. The fireworks are the final event so most people leave as soon as the fireworks end. It will be a busy evening event as it is both a weekend day and the first day of the balloon fiesta.

Alice Scofield Post author

July 17, 2019 at 1:40 pm

was wondering if you could reccomend a hotel to stay at that we could see these balloons from? Rick does not do well in crowds and has a disability…can’t walk more than 20 steps but he would love to see them. any suggestions….since I don’t know the area but would love to get him there on the 9th through the 12th.

July 17, 2019 at 3:38 pm

I have not watched the balloons from a hotel so I don’t have any specific recommendations, but I can tell you that you can see them from many places in Albuquerque. If you have a view towards the field you will see them if they launch on that morning. I used to see them as I drove to work and many people just sit outside in their yards or porches. Some go to nearby parking lots and watch. So really if you can look up for where you are, you’ll likely see them.

Anywhere near the park with a room facing the direction of the Balloon Fiesta Park would be a good location. As general guidelines, closer to the park the better the view and you will want to choose a hotel or viewing spot east of Interstate 25 and north of Paseo del Norte. We give several suggestions for nearby hotels above in the article, but we also recommend looking up the Balloon Fiesta Park location on a map and then searching for hotels nearby. For more lodging options near the Balloon Fiesta see this hotel list and this list . as you can sort these lists by distance from the Balloon Fiesta Park and by budget. For example one nearby hotel popular with fiesta visitors is Sandia Resort & Casino .

Once you have a list you can call and check about rooms with views and the direction they are facing. Just note hotel prices are going to be high that week during Balloon Fiesta, and be sure to book in advance as most sell out.

The direction of the balloons, and how close you will see them, is going to depend on the winds. Northwest Albuquerque (Alameda, North Valley, Sandia Valley, Bosque Dell Acres, etc.), Corrales, and Rio Rancho are also good bets as balloons often head that way. Even if you don’t have a good view from your hotel, you can drive to a nearby parking area and just bring folding chairs to sit and watch. The Bosque area around the Rio Grande is a nice area if the balloons head that way and you can easily bring something to sit on and enjoy the view from there.

Note that you will want to be out for the morning events as they balloons do not leave the field for the evening events (they are tethered in place) so not really visible from outside field. I’d recommend bringing along a good pair of binoculars for better views since you may be viewing them at a bit of a distance.

Another option I’d really recommend is checking out availability for balloon events being held during the Balloon Fiesta at the Balloon Museum. The museum has a great glass viewing area where you can sit comfortably and watch the balloons and an outdoor viewing deck. It is near the field so you get a good view but you are not actually on the field and don’t have to go through ticketing or anything. They often have special meals and other events here during the Balloon events. The museum is ADA compliant and I think the event space is full accessible for wheelchairs. Although there would of course be other people here, it is not super crowded and only those with tickets can join and it is equivalent to being in a busy restaurant rather than being on the field with the large crowds. You can see events here: http://www.balloonmuseum.com/

Kathy Post author

June 14, 2019 at 8:23 am

Thanks for the great article! Is it possible/advisable to attend the morning and evening session on the same day? We were thinking of doing general admission in the morning and Gondola club at night. Is there enough to do between the morning and evening, or should we plan to leave then come back? Thanks!

June 14, 2019 at 9:31 am

Yes, I definitely can recommend doing a morning session and evening session in the same day, especially if you are having good weather conditions!

You can check out the Balloon Fiesta schedule for the date you plan to attend but on most days things are pretty quiet from about 11am to 5pm with little to watch and do so I’d recommend leaving to get lunch and do some sightseeing in Albuquerque and surrounds in between the morning and evening sessions. Some people also use this time to catch up on a little rest if they got up super early 😉

June 16, 2019 at 2:04 pm

Thanks! How often have events been cancelled? We are worried about not being able to use our Chaser\Gondola tickets for later session since we plan to attend on Saturday

June 16, 2019 at 2:18 pm

Hi Kathy, It is unpredictable and different every year, but normally at least a few sessions are cancelled each year. For example last year when we last attended, four out of the 14 sessions were cancelled due to poor weather conditions. So it is a chance to take if you purchase Chasers’ or Gondola Club tickets as there are no refunds. Alternatively, you can of course just purchase general admission tickets for the evening session as well.

Note that it looks like the Chasers Club and Gondola Club tickets for weekends (and some of the other dates) are almost sold out, so if you do want to purchase them, I would do it soon 😉

Valarie Bedard Post author

June 11, 2019 at 3:18 pm

Great article! Thanks so much for sharing such useful, personal information. And your pictures are super – so lively and colorful. This will be the first time Im attending the Fiesta and Im going with 6 good friends. So much of what we have read about the event has been expository, we really have appreciated your article because it was personal (and filled with good tips!). Wonder if you have one more tip? A late-comer friend of ours is joining us but she cannot get a ticket for with the Chasers or Gondola events which the rest of us already have tickets for given they are sold out. What advice would you have for her? Are there scalpers? Can we find tickets sold by third parties? or should we give up any hope we can find a way for her to join us at those upgraded VIP events? Thanks !

June 12, 2019 at 4:27 am

Hi Valarie,

Glad you are finding our Albuquerque posts helpful in planning your visit to the Balloon Fiesta!

I do see that a few of the sessions have already sold out. No, unfortunately, tickets are only sold directly via the Balloon Fiesta and they obviously need to limit the Chasers’ Club and Gondola Club tickets so everyone has enough space/seating. I’ve not seen scalpers with tickets at the event before.

First, I’d call the Balloon Fiesta directly to confirm that no tickets are possible for the dates you plan to go if you have not done so already. Another option if you have flexibility in terms of when you go is to call and try moving the dates of your tickets to a session where tickets are still available so your friend can join you.

Please note that the Chasers’ Club and Gondola Clubs are in completely separate areas of the field so you would want to all have tickets to the same seating area or you’ll still be separated.

Otherwise, she will have to just get a regular admission ticket and explore on her own. Or she can get a VIP ticket via the Concierge Program which includes the personal concierge, golf cart, admission tickets, etc.

But even if you have an upgraded ticket and she doesn’t, you can join her as much as you want around the field and event. There is plenty to see and do once the balloons start inflating on the field, and the field is a great place to watch.

Mark Ostrowski Post author

June 1, 2019 at 8:23 am

This is wonderful information. Thank you!!! We are coming in for the Fiesta 2019 from Baltimore, staying at the Hilton Homewood Suites Journal center, and debating about driving ourselves for Thursday and Friday, or taking the park and ride. Any thoughts? Thanks in advance.

June 1, 2019 at 9:42 am

Hi Mark, Glad you found it helpful. Given your hotel location, either would work, and the Park & Ride is running on both of those days for the morning and evening sessions. Friday is likely to be more busy than Thursday.

Your closest Park & Ride would be the Hoffmantown Church parking lot. Since that is fairly close to your hotel, it might be a good way to avoid driving into the Balloon Fiesta traffic. If you decide to take the Park & Ride, be sure to book your tickets online as you won’t be able to purchase tickets in person at the Park & Ride locations.

Mark Post author

June 1, 2019 at 5:32 pm

Fantastic. Thanks and enjoy the summer.

Lori Post author

May 30, 2019 at 10:28 am

Thank you for such a wonderful guide to the Fiesta!! We will be first-time visitors to the Fiesta and New Mexico. We are staying in Santa Fe, and wondering how early we should leave to drive to Albuquerque for the morning sessions, and which Park and Ride location would be best coming from Santa Fe. I couldn’t find any info on-line for the Rail Runner Balloon Fiesta schedule. Is there a shuttle from one of the Rail Runner stations that takes you to the Fiesta?

May 30, 2019 at 12:53 pm

Glad you are finding our ABQ Balloon Fiesta guide helpful! Yes, normally on the weekend festival days, there is a special Rail Runner train service that connects to a station (usually in Los Ranchos) to shuttle buses that will take visitors directly to the Balloon Fiesta. These have not normally run on the weekdays.

It is probably too early for a train schedule to be out for this year’s event and I haven’t heard a confirmation that those will be running but I would be surprised if they did not. You might try calling the Balloon Fiesta number and asking about this as they may be able to confirm that it is planned to run on the weekends again as usual. If so, then you can make plans accordingly for that and just wait for the schedule to get the times.

If you are driving, the closest Park & Ride location is probably Cottonwood Mall if driving from Santa Fe, but really if you are driving south on I-25, it would probably make more sense to park at the Fiesta Park than drive a bit further to the Park & Ride and then take a shuttle.

The drive from Albuquerque to Santa Fe normally takes about an hour, but expect it to take longer once you get closer to ABQ with the Fiesta traffic and exit ramp closures, so I would recommend leaving quite early, particularly if on a morning weekend event. I would make sure you are on your way by 4am at the very latest (earlier if possible) if driving so you can be parking and on the field by 6am.

If you have flexibility of where you are staying, I’d highly recommend spending a night or two in Albuquerque (rather than Santa Fe) if attending the Fiesta is a priority. That way you don’t have to worry quite as much about getting there and won’t have so far to drive back and forth, etc.

Enjoy your time at the Balloon Fiesta and New Mexico, and just let us know if you have further questions.

Doreen Post author

May 27, 2019 at 8:52 am

This is the most comprehensive information I have ever read. Thank you so much. If the hotel is within walking distance, and you have advance tickets, do you need to be there so early? Would being at the entrance around 6 am or 6:30 am be OK? Its not the getting up early that’s the problem, it’s the standing around in the cold that concerns me. Would the Chasers’ club be an option for staying indoors until around 6:30 am? Likewise, if people were to hire a car, could they sit in their car until around 6 am?

May 27, 2019 at 10:17 am

If you are walking, I would recommend being there by around 6:00am since this is when Dawn Patrol normally starts and morning glows normally start around 6:30am. The ticket and security lines are not normally that long and move fairly quickly as they check bags and scan tickets.

Just note that there are not many hotels or motels that are an easy walk away from the Balloon Fiesta field. If walking, you’ll want to take your time and be safe with the highways given all the traffic for the Fiesta. If you enjoy cycling, that is also an option and would warm you up on the way there.

If you rented a care and drove, you could get there early and sit in your car if you wanted to but I think you will be OK if you dress properly and walk around with a coffee or hot drink.

It is normally chilly in the morning, but it is not normally super cold. Be sure to check weather forecast the night before and wear layers. There are vendors selling hot drinks and warm food and there are a few tents (little shops, kiosks, information tents) along main street that you go inside if its windy. There is also the Balloon Discovery Center Tent and Craft Tent which are much larger tents although I am not sure how early they open each day.

The Chasers’ Club and Gondola Club both have covered and mostly enclosed tent areas as well as outside areas. Both also serve coffee and tea. So those would be options and give you a place to sit and come back to throughout the morning. Although if you only plan to use the Club area for 30 minutes or so, it is probably not worth the extra money for the tickets.

Annie McIntyre Post author

May 13, 2019 at 5:37 pm

Hi, Thanks for all the info. I’m wondering how the view is from the Chasers area. Only going for 3 days – we’re all in our 60s, wondering if we should just go for the chasers for all the sessions and leave if we want…

May 14, 2019 at 1:36 am

The view is not quite as good as the Gondola Club (we have a photo from there in our post) but it is very similar, and you can see one taken from the Chasers’ Club here on the official website. Hopefully that helps, but if not, send me an email and I can see if we can find a couple photos taken last year from that area.

If you are looking for a dedicated place to sit and also want access to drinks, snacks, and toilets, it can be a good option. You can leave and re-enter as you wish. Note that you ticket includes your admission to the event, but does not include parking or transport. Tickets are per session and there are 2 sessions on most days (morning and evening).

Vicky Post author

May 11, 2019 at 10:34 am

Hi Jessica and thanks for the comprehensive info! I will be taking my mother for her 85th birthday this year — an event she has always wanted to visit — including a balloon ride booked with Rainbow Ryders. Here are my questions: 1. We are riding in mass ascension on opening day, so need to be there too early to be able to take Park & Ride that day. Any sense how early onsite parking might fill up on opening day? And if we need to be there at 4.30-ish, do we need to allow HOURS to travel less than 5 miles to drive there? 2. If we were to buy a Chasers’ Club ticket for one session (not the morning of our ride), do you think the Club and seating area makes more sense for a Mass Ascension morning or for an evening glow/fireworks event? Many thanks, Vicky

May 12, 2019 at 12:34 pm

So glad our ABQ Balloon Fiesta post has been helpful, and it sounds like you have an exciting trip planned with your mother!

1. You should be fine with leaving by 4:30 to get to the park on time. If you are only 5 miles away, it shouldn’t take that long to get there, but traffic on the mornings of opening weekend is always a bit worse, so just be sure to allow lots of extra time and if you can leave a bit earlier (say 4:00ish), it can help avoid lines to get into the parking. But you don’t need to leave at 3am or anything 😉 I don’t think the parking area opens to visitors until 4am so that is the earliest you’d want to be there.

2. Personally, I love to walk among the balloons and see them from different angles so I’d definitely recommend doing that on the day you are not doing the balloon flight one morning if you can – the balloons are best seen in the morning events. But you can of course leave the Chaser’s Club area to do this during any session. So I’d maybe recommend the Chaser’s Club for the evening glow event as there is less to do/see on the field and it can be nice to have a chair. But I guess it depends on your mom’s feelings and ability to stand/walk for prolonged periods of time – you can bring in a folding chair as well or rent a wheelchair/scooter if needed.

Also, I’d be sure to check Rainbow Ryders policy if flights don’t go up on the date you booked due to weather. If they offer you to rebook the flight for the following day, you’ll want to leave that morning open (not book Chaser’s Club tickets) in case you need to do your rescheduled flight. There is usually at least one or two days each Fiesta where it is not safe for the balloons to fly (normally due to winds) so good to plan some flexibility into your plans. The evening events do get cancelled occasionally but this is less likely as they are less affected by the weather, so maybe a safer time for you to book the Chasers’ Club tickets since you have a morning balloon flight booked.

Anyway, I hope that helps, and wishing you a wonderful Balloon Fiesta and trip!! Feel free to reach out if you have further questions.

May 12, 2019 at 7:48 pm

Thx Jessica for your very helpful reply and suggestions! Your idea of not booking chasers’ club on morning number 2 is a good one— just in case we would need to try to reschedule our ride due to weather. Many thx!!

Cathy Post author

April 21, 2019 at 7:56 pm

OMG!!! So glad I found this! We aren’t planning to go till 2020, but we can be more prepared now thanks to you. If you rent a scooter there do you need to stay on the main roads or can you go in the grassy areas? Also for handicap parking do you need to let them know ahead of time? Like give a call ? I know the scooters you said are on a first come first serve basis. Probably will have more questions as time goes on and gets closer.

April 22, 2019 at 4:12 am

This may change by the 2020 Balloon Fiesta event but here is the general info as far as I know from this past year’s event.

For the wheelchair and mobility scooter rental, they do have a limited number which are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. So if one of these is a must, I would call ahead to see if you can reserve a scooter for the sessions you know you plan to attend. I think with a scooter you can indeed go into the grass, as most of the field is grass. But when you call, I’d confirm this is the case.

For the handicap parking I don’t think you need to do anything in advance. The parking price is the same ($15 per session as of now) and you will just need to have the valid blue parking tag of someone in the vehicle to show to be directed to the correct parking area. The handicap parking area is near the main entrance and not far from where you can rent the mobility scooters.

Hope this helps! Jessica

Quyn Phan Post author

March 26, 2019 at 1:06 pm

Hi! I’m from Dallas, TX and I’m very interested in attending this festival this year and I’m thinking about surprising my boyfriend with tickets for his birthday (he lives in Charlotte, NC). I really enjoyed reading this article! Tickets go on sale 4/5 for 2019 and I really want to get them for Friday-Sunday. Since we both work, that’s really the only time we have to go! They’re only $10, but I’m confused as to what all that entails. That’s general admission, but will I be able to see the balloons launch at the mass ascension? I can’t tell what’s additional and I want to make sure I purchase/plan accordingly. Since we’re probably going to fly into Albuquerque’s airport, where do you suggest we stay? Would a hotel with a park and shuttle option be best? Or would an Airbnb and then Uber/Lyft? Also, is there one weekend that’s better than the other? Lastly, what advice do you have for first timers to attend this event?

Haha, sorry for asking so many questions but I really want plan a good trip/surprise for him!

March 26, 2019 at 8:16 pm

That sounds like a nice surprise 😉 First, I would try to plan it so you have 3 full days to attend if you can, just so that if there are cancellations, you have a better chance to see the different events. Cancellations happen every year and are unpredictable. If they go up your first day, then you can go again or enjoy other things in the city and area.

So the general admission tickets cover full access to any balloon event happening for that session, whether it is the morning mass ascension, the special shapes rodeo, evening glow, etc. The only thing it does not cover is the Music Fiesta or special separately ticketed events. It is not an expensive festival which is great.

You don’t need to purchase the admission tickets in advance if you don’t want to (you can buy them as you enter that day), but you can. I’d wait to figure out your flights and lodging first, then figure out transport and tickets. Because if you purchase Park and Ride tickets, those tickets also include your admission.

Yes, I would definitely fly into Albuquerque. Without a car, you have a few options: 1.) Stay at a hotel within walking distance (or short taxi ride) of one of the event Park & Ride shuttles – you’ll want to purchase the tickets in advance, 2.) Just taking a taxi/Uber/Lyft to the event (note you’ll pay surge pricing). or 3.) Stay at a hotel that offers its own shuttle to the event (you’ll want to book the shuttle in advance). We give some hotel suggestions in the article, but if you want more specific advice, let me know what kind of hotel, budget, and if there is an area you want to be in.

You can check the program for what is happening on each weekend but normally the events are the same. I would say that the first weekend is often a bit busier than the second one. But just be sure to arrive as early as you can as weekends are the busiest days of the event.

For general advice, I’d just read the full article as that should give you all the information you need 😉

michelle metcalf Post author

March 22, 2019 at 10:49 pm

I am glad to have found your blog. Great information on the Balloon Festival. I am very excited to be going this year 2019. It will be my first time and I have been planning for many years. I have booked a hotel near one of the Park & ride locations. I just saw on the website that they dont have service for Wednesday – my first day – so I guess i will have to drive myself that day. I planned to leave early… Your tips & ideas are great and I will follow them. Thanks for your experience and photos. I joined your newsletter and look forward to reading more travel experiences on your blog. Thanks again… Michelle

March 23, 2019 at 5:22 am

Hi Michelle, Yes, the Park & Ride shuttles normally only run Thursday to Sunday, but I would check the 2019 schedule once it is released to confirm, which should be in the next couple of months. You can purchase your tickets online through the Balloon Fiesta website once they are available.

Yes, I would aim to catch one of the earliest shuttles and when driving to leave yourself plenty of time as things move slowly the closer you are to the park, and also they shut down some of the highway exit ramps to funnel traffic. The worst days are definitely the weekends.

If you have any questions about the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta (or things to do in ABQ) just let us know. We should have more New Mexico related articles out later this year before the fiesta.

March 29, 2019 at 8:39 am

Thanks for replying back. I checked the website… tickets go on sale next week. In big red letters, it does say that “no shuttles run on mon, tues, wed…. so its official for this year. I am going to probably just Uber. I have decided to not rent a car and use Uber. I picked a hotel near my shuttle pickup and Old Town is just minutes away. I am going to take the Rail Runner to Santa Fe for a day trip also. I am way too excited !!!

thanks again for your help… Michelle

March 29, 2019 at 10:31 am

Hi Michelle,

Sounds like you have your trip about sorted out now 😉 If you do go with Uber, just be sure to leave plenty of time. Uber, Lyft, and taxis were not given priority lane access last year (as they had in prior years, they could use the shuttle lanes) and so rides took as long as normal traffic. And obviously there will be surge pricing.

Santa Fe is a great day trip from Albuquerque by Rail Runner – enjoy!

Jonathan L. Chagoya Post author

January 5, 2019 at 11:46 pm

Such an amazing article.I love this article. The pictures are also very beautiful. Thanks for sharing.

January 6, 2019 at 6:57 am

Hi Jonathan, Thanks for taking the time to comment and glad you enjoyed our article and photos of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. I hope you have a chance to attend the balloon fiesta yourself some day! Best, Jessica

luis Post author

October 12, 2018 at 2:34 pm

Hello, great post!

I booked a hotel that is within 2.6 miles from the event, and it is supposed to be a 10 min drive. We are planning to be at the park by 5:30 am. However, we don’t know how long the line is going to get. If it were you, at what time would you leave the hotel?

Also, I read that Uber had a designated route in previous years, so they didn’t have to be stuck in the same traffic. But I heard that they don’t count with this route this year. Do you have any information about that?

thank you, it is really appreciated it.

October 12, 2018 at 3:38 pm

Hi Luis, I would recommend leaving your hotel by at least 4:30pm, earlier the better. We were there last Saturday and left at 4:30am and the traffic was already bad and it took us much longer than expected to get parked. It was opening day though and good weather forecasted, so it may not be as bad this weekend but I would not take that chance. The ticket and security lines were moving fast though even on that day.

Also note that the police and security had certain roads, exit ramps, and lanes closed that Google Maps will not know about in advance which could slow down your drive. Pay attention to the signs and follow signs for Balloon Fiesta Parking once you are close (be sure to stay out of the pilot, crew, and shuttle lanes).

Uber and Lyft had in previous years been able to use the Park & Ride shuttle lane, but they have NOT been allowed to do this week so far as far as I know. I heard from a Uber driver that Uber is still trying to negotiate being able to do that this weekend, but I would not plan on it unless you hear an announcement otherwise.

You are better off driving or taking a Park & Ride shuttle. If you take a Shuttle, I’d still plan to board one by 4:30 if you can.

Hope that helps and wishing you a wonderful Balloon Fiesta!

Natasha Post author

October 9, 2018 at 6:00 am

First off I want to say great blog about the Albuquerque Balloon Festival, best out there! This is out first time and my family and I had a wonderful time at the mass ascent this morning. However, a couple days ago we went to a Balloon Glow event in the evening but it was cancelled and there was just fireworks. We stayed for the fireworks and stuff, but want to return. Do we need to buy new tickets? The event was cancelled after we arrived but then we stayed so not sure if that matters? Any suggestions or hints? Appreciate it!

October 10, 2018 at 10:45 am

Hi Natasha, So happy you got to see a mass ascension this morning, so colorful and beautiful! There was excellent weather this morning and fingers crossed it continues for the rest of the week. Yes, a few events have been cancelled earlier this week, including the evening Balloon Glows. You can reuse the tickets, just use the same ticket that you purchased for the event that was cancelled and you should be able to then re-use it for any session. If you have any issue, just explain that you had used it for a session that was cancelled. Parking tickets and special events tickets cannot be reused. Tickets are not refundable but can be reused if balloon event is cancelled.

Ruth Kohler Post author

October 8, 2018 at 6:00 pm

We’ll be staying in a hotel (close by), but will have our motorhome with us. I was wondering what you thought about parking the motorhome in the parking lot during the sessions. Is it close enuf to run back and forth for bathroom and rest breaks?

October 10, 2018 at 10:39 am

Hi Ruth, If you are parking in the nearby RV parking lots at Balloon Fiesta, you are probably within a 10-15 minute walk. But none of the hotels are super close so I would recommend just using the toilets at the Balloon Fiesta. Otherwise you need to leave the park and then stand back in line to re-enter. Also the roads will be busy and not great for walking. If you need a rest there are some picnic tables along the edge of the field and you can also bring in a folding lawn chair that you can place on the edges of the field.

Then you can return to your hotel and motorhome between sessions if you plan to attend both a morning and evening session.

Hope that helps and hope you have a wonderful Balloon Fiesta!

Erica Post author

September 17, 2018 at 5:33 am

Hi – I loved reading ALL the wonderful info that you took the time to post. My husband and I have booked our hotel (and car) and thought we had chosen the correct day to go. I mistakingly did not book the correct day to be there for the mass ascension. My question (probably quite “dumb”) is : Do balloons launch in the mornings of the other days even if it is not “en mass”? We are very disappointed that our early planning was not quite what the outcome should have been! Thank you, again, for all your wonderful info. Hope all is well in your life. Erica

September 18, 2018 at 8:15 pm

I am really sorry to hear that! Don’t feel alone though, a lot of people assume that all days of the balloon festival are the same, but there are different events on different days. Yes, the balloons do launch every day, depending on weather conditions of course. There are mass ascensions on the weekends (both Saturdays and Sundays) as well as Wednesday this year.

On the other days, there are still balloons going up each morning, just not nearly as many. But there is the Special Shapes Rodeos on two of those days, which is when all the Special Shapes hot air balloons go up. There are also night glows on Thursday and Friday as well as the weekends.

You can see the full events schedule for this year here .

Hope this helps, and do let me know if you have any other questions about the Balloon Fiesta or visiting ABQ.

Zoe Post author

September 4, 2018 at 7:29 pm

Thank you for such a comprehensive article! I feel totally prepared now with the inside knowledge. We are only 6 hrs away, so one of these years it will be a fun time to actually go to the festival. BTW, last year we were on one of our drive throughs, having no idea that the festival was happening & we had no trouble getting a hotel with only a week or so notice. We usually stay at one of the Residence Inn’s, so it is sometimes possible to visit during that time without planning ahead.

September 5, 2018 at 4:11 am

Hi Zoe, So glad that this was helpful and happy to hear you will be attending the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta this year!

Yes, you can still find accommodation last minute but you will pay a lot more. In 2016, when we tried to book the same hotel we had stayed in a couple weeks before, the price was almost 3X during the week of the Balloon Fiesta. If we had booked ahead, we would not have had to pay so much. We do recommend that people do plan ahead if they can! Not only for accommodation, but also in planning what events they want to attend and knowing how to get to them.

We are actually going this year again as well. It is a great festival and I am sure you will enjoy it!

September 5, 2018 at 10:36 am

Makes sense, good point! We used Marriott points, so I didn’t think of that. Thanks again!

Michelle Post author

March 20, 2018 at 12:04 pm

We are planning to go this year (our first!) and will be staying at the Sandia Resort however are trying to decide what day to ride the balloon. Have you heard what it’s like to ride the day before the event starts (pre ride) and how much more different (positive or negative) the experience would be opposed to the first day? Any insight or suggestions would be great.

March 20, 2018 at 12:15 pm

Hi Michelle, That is exciting to hear 😉 The Sandia Resort is very convenient to the Balloon Fiesta Field and they often they have a shuttle you can arrange to take you to and from the resort to the field. Do you know if they are running that this year?

In terms of the balloon flight – doing it before the Balloon Fiesta starts would be a lot like doing it any other time of the year. You will probably launch along with several other balloons and get to see the same things in terms of landscape/cityscape. If this is your first hot air balloon ride, it will be thrilling no matter where you are going/seeing. The con of course is that you won’t get to see all the other balloons launch along with you and see them in the air (this is particularly spectacular on mass ascension mornings). The pro however is that it much less expensive to go on a flight (usually 50% less or more) outside of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. So there are definitely pros and cons.

No matter which you decide to do, I would definitely book early in your trip in case of weather cancellations – as you will want to be able to do alternative dates.

Hope this helps and wishing you a wonderful time at the Balloon Fiesta! Jessica

March 20, 2018 at 7:40 pm

Thanks, Jessica! Really appreciate it. The Sandia Resort says they are offering shuttles for $10/person this year (sucks that we have to pay) but I’ll take it over driving and parking any day!

If we ride the balloon on the day of instead with all the other balloons, approximately how many balloons would we see in the air since the flight is so short (~45 mins)? 70? 100? Trying to figure out if the best view of all the balloons is on the ground or up in the air? If it’s just around 70, probably would get a better view on the ground right? Ahh, so much to think about 🙂

March 25, 2018 at 6:45 pm

Yes, the $10/person is reasonable as it saves you the parking fee and also having to drive. I imagine that Sandia Resort doesn’t have enough shuttles/staff to offer it to all guests for free.

The answer to the hot air balloon question is that it really depends. There could be hundreds (400-500+) of balloons going up on a Mass Ascension morning although they launch in waves so you can’t seem them all in the sky all at once, but they do fill the sky after a short while. In terms of the view from a hot air balloon from the field, since you can’t control when you launch and how your balloon travels, it really depends. If you go early you’ll probably see less balloons than if you launch in the middle of the launch sequence. But you’ll definitely get good views of the other balloons from inside the balloon. But you’ll also get great views of the balloons launching and going into the air from the ground. The views are good from both the ground and balloon, just different.

On a regular morning with a smaller launch or Special Shapes launch or such, there may be anywhere from 30 to 200 balloons depending on the event.

Note that weather is a big factor on any day and if a caution warning is given (versus a cancellation) balloons can decide if they want to launch or not, and some will and some won’t which will decrease the numbers.

If you are unsure whether to book a balloon flight during the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta or before it, I’d call Rainbow Ryders and chat with them to find out the exact price differences and details. Rainbow Ryders is currently the only hot air balloon company allowed to launch from the Balloon Fiesta field during the balloon festival.

Robin Post author

July 24, 2018 at 2:38 am

Luckily and coincidentally we will be driving through Albuquerque during the balloon festival week. I was wondering if you knew of a good location for us to park and watch the balloons? We don’t have hotel reservations at this time and I have a large dog so going to the festival is not an option. Any suggestions for us to hang out and view? Thank you! Robin

July 24, 2018 at 11:13 am

That is both good and bad timing for you as you have a chance to see the balloons but it will also be one of the busiest times of the year in the city. I would check the latest Albuquerque Ballon Fiesta schedule for the ascensions so you know the times of the schedule events during the time you’ll be in the city. Your best chance to see the balloons is early in morning during one of the morning mass ascensions where hundreds of balloons are launched at one time. I’d be in the city in a “good” location around the time the balloons are set to launch.

It is really hard to predict where the balloons will go as they will go in the direction of the wind which obviously changes. In our experience, they often head towards and land over in the Rio Rancho and Corrales areas. So a hill in that area, the northern section of the Bosque trail , or a spot near the Rio Grande river over in that direction can be a nice place to watch as they often float over the river. However, as the event begins and the balloons take off, you should have a better idea of which direction they are going at that point and can move if needed. Just note that sometimes the wind changes direction during the event as well 😉

If the event happens, you should be able to see the balloons as they are visible from many parts of Albuquerque. Just be sure to find a proper place to park and are out of the way of balloon recovery vehicles and local drivers, and you should be fine!

Hope that helps!!

Elizabeth Post author

March 19, 2018 at 12:22 pm

Hello again Jessica Things are crazy as we approach Spring Break!!! I did want to ask a few more questions. I feel because of some medical problems we will not be able to fly in one of the balloons during ascension. But would love to watch if you know of a breathtaking spot. Also would like to go into the park for a day and be among all the excitement. Is there a park and ride near Rio Rancho? Is there a special pass to buy for seating, bathrooms and food while there? As mentioned before, we will be staying in Rio Rancho for 4 nights doing the Balloon Festival and the other sites in the area. We will fly in and rent a car. Thank you again for all your tips and blog!

March 19, 2018 at 1:36 pm

Hi Elizabeth,

Sorry to hear that you may not be able to do a hot balloon ride during the festival, but a lot of the joy is just watching the balloons take to the sky. With a regular ticket you get access to the field, food vendors, and toilets (port-a-potties). There is no seating on the field although you can bring a blanket or small seat if you think you will need to sit down, but most people walk around the field and “main street” area throughout the event.

The upgraded experiences do have seating areas as well as dedicated toilets and food areas. For upgraded experiences, you can buy tickets to join the Chasers’ Club or the Gondola Club. These tickets go on sale online in April from the fiesta’s website. So if seating and dedicated areas are important, you can get one of those tickets instead of a regular admission ticket. Just note that these are priced per session and there are no refunds if the event is cancelled due to weather.

In terms of where to spot them, you can see them from around Albuquerque and surrounding communities like Rio Rancho and Corrales. However, because the balloons go where the wind blows, the only real guaranteed place to see them each time if they go up is from the field and nearby. But if you do see them from the field you can take your chances and try to see them from another spot. A spot along the Rio Grande is nice place to go and will be not too far from you if they come along the river.

In terms of Park & Ride locations, there is often one at Intel Park & Ride location (1600 Rio Rancho Boulevard SE) in Rio Rancho but do check the website closer to the time to confirm before purchasing tickets. Another nearby location for you would be the Cottonwood Mall which is another Park & Ride location a few miles away in northwest ABQ.

December 31, 2017 at 10:52 am

Happy New Year to you and your family! Well, it appears we will be staying in a hotel in Reo Rancho. We will fly in on Wed and out on Monday. We have a car rental. We do not have in our package the tickets for the park. We would like to see mass ascension and the night glow. I hear there is music during the day also. I assume we would need tickets for only those two days, right? I also see that the gondola club is the ones to buy if I am correct. Thank you again!

December 31, 2017 at 5:58 pm

Hi Elizabeth, Rio Rancho is a good location actually for attending the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta as it is just north of Albuquerque and only about a 15 to 20 minute drive to the park (although will obviously take longer during fiesta).

So the mass ascensions are normally scheduled for weekend mornings as well as one weekday morning during the week – these are my favorite events but also the event that is most likely to be cancelled due to weather. So I’d take a look at the 2018 schedule and then try to arrange your trip so that you have as many chances as possible to see the balloons on alternative days as there are normally some cancellations for the morning ascension events (sometimes the nighttime events as well). You can often see a mass ascension and night glow on the same day (if neither is cancelled), but even if you do both on same day you’ll probably want to leave the park and do something in the afternoon in between the events.

There is normally a music concert during the fiesta which is ticketed separately (buy a ticket in advance online if you want to attend) and sometimes there are smaller entertainment happening in the afternoon as well that are free.

Now if you want to buy an upgraded ticket like the Gondola Club tickets (or Chasers’ Club) those need to be purchased in advance and will cover your admission to the park throughout the event, parking, and a number of extras. I don’t think tickets are for sale yet but they are normally available beginning in March or April. If you decide to just pay for a regular entrance, you can pay for the parking as you enter (bring cash) and then purchase tickets each day before you enter the event.

Happy New Years to you as well, and wishing you a wonderful 2018! Jessica

December 28, 2017 at 1:17 pm

There is not enough thank you for your photos and information about the Albuquerque Balloon Festival. My husband and I are planning to attend this year, 2018. We are in our late 60’s and get around ok. We in general like to stay close but can not walk long distance at one time. We thought about the RV park but that would mean we would have to rent a RV. We also thought about a small VRBO. Then there is always the hotels close by that offer packages as well as AAA. Budget is not a problem but would rather save some money for another trip if possible. Soo, any suggestions that you can offer will be very much appreciated. It is always good to hear from previous visitors. Thanking you in advance

December 29, 2017 at 4:07 pm

Hi Elizabeth, I am so happy to hear that our article is helping you plan your trip to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta for this coming year!

Yes, having an RV at the Fiesta Parks makes it very convenient! I know Outdoorsy is one service that allows for peer-to-peer rentals if you were looking to go that route.

There are of course a number of hotel and apartment rentals as well in the city. Based on what you are saying, if you don’t do the RV, I would find a hotel that offers a shuttle package or a place that is within walking distance of one of the Park & Ride shuttle lots. Or if you plan to rent a car, then you can just drive to a Park & Ride lot as well.

The closest to the field are the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Albuquerque-N. Balloon Fiesta Parkway and the Sandia Casino Hotel. I think the casino probably runs a shuttle to the Fiesta for guests since I know they have one (I would check though!). There are loads of AAA hotels in Albuquerque. I would find ones that fit your budget and then call to see which offer shuttles during the Balloon Fiesta or will arrange one for you (ask the price).

In terms of Park & Ride lots, these change each year but the Cottonwood Mall (10000 Coors Bypass NW) and Coronado Center (6600 Menaul Blvd NE) have been constants so finding a hotel near one of those can work as well if you’d like to do the Park & Ride. You can search for hotels or apartments within a short walk of the shopping centers. Or if you rent a car, you can of course stay wherever and then just park at one of the Park & Ride lots and take the shuttle into the Fiesta park. The shuttles pull in as close as possible for drop-in and drop-off.

If you are looking for a hotel within walking distance of things to do, I’d book one near either the Old Town or Nob Hill areas as there are a lot of shops, restaurants, and museums in those areas. These will be a bit more expensive but there will more opportunities for things to do in between balloon fiesta events.

You have plenty of time to find a place, although as I note in the post it is good to book well in advance of the Fiesta as it is the busiest and most expensive time of the year in Albuquerque. Many hotels double their prices and sell out during the Balloon Fiesta. Oh, and if either of you have difficulty standing for long periods, I’d bring along a couple of collapsable chairs, cushions, or a blanket to the field so you can find a place to sit when you need it.

Hope this helps a little. Feel free to reach back out once you’ve narrowed down some options!

Mohit Agarwal Post author

October 1, 2017 at 2:34 pm

Thank you for this post about the Albuquerque Balloon Festival! It’s such a beautiful event and the information that you have provided is enriching. This is definitely going to be very helpful in our planning. Appreciate bloggers like yourself!

October 1, 2017 at 4:53 pm

Hi Mohit, You’re very welcome. I hope you have an amazing time at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta – it is such a wonderful event! It is my favorite hot air ballooning event and I am very lucky to have been able to visit twice so far. Let us know if you have any questions about the festival or things to do in Albuquerque during your trip! Happy travels, Jessica

Peachypickard Post author

March 3, 2017 at 1:52 pm

Hello, We are planning the trip for this October, where do you suggest we stay? We plan on being in Albuquerque for 4 days and a few in Santa Fe..any suggestion on hotels, VRBO, north, south of city…etc would be helpful! Photos are beautiful! Great info also.

March 3, 2017 at 7:51 pm

Hi there, Glad you found the information helpful and it is exciting to hear you are planning to go to Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. It is good to book your hotels well in advance for the balloon fiesta as this is definitely the busiest time of year in Albuquerque and it is also a busy week for Santa Fe as well.

We’ve stayed in Rio Rancho and the westside of Albuquerque during balloon fiesta which is about a 10-20 minute drive in normal traffic to the park (obviously longer during fiesta). The North Valley is a great area to stay if you want to be really close to the park.

But you have lots of options there and elsewhere and it depends if you plan to take the Park & Ride shuttles or drive to the event – if the former, then I’d stay near a Park & Ride location. I can give you more specific hotel suggestions, but it would help to know your general budget, type of lodging you prefer, whether you’ll have a car, whether you plan to drive or take a shuttle to the balloon fiesta, and what is most important (e.g., being close to the balloon park, free breakfast, lowest price, luxury amenities).

Fernando Post author

January 6, 2017 at 6:57 am

Thank you, what a nice article on the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta! Lots of helpful tips and advice.

travelcats Post author

January 6, 2017 at 10:12 am

Hi Fernando, Glad you found our article helpful! Just let us know if you have any questions about planning a trip to Albuquerque or the Balloon Fiesta itself. Best, Jessica

Frank Post author

November 23, 2016 at 4:17 pm

Awesome post! I’ve been thinking of attending the Balloon Fiesta for the longest time but have never gotten around to doing it!

November 24, 2016 at 5:59 am

Hi Frank, It is definitely worth making the time to go to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta and if you have yet to explore ABQ and Santa Fe, you’ll have plenty to do for the week. Santa Fe is an easy drive or train ride (Rail Runner) from downtown Albuquerque. Best, Jessica

Rajkumar Post author

November 9, 2016 at 2:47 am

Hey Jessica, Thanks for inside guide of Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. I have never been to Mexico. Being a fan of Ballooning, I will keep in mind this date (this event will be held on the same dates every year?) You have captured stunning pictures of this event. Happy Travelling!

November 11, 2016 at 4:58 am

Hi Rajkumar, Glad you enjoyed the guide and our photos. The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is actually in New Mexico which is a state within the United States. If you are a fan of ballooning, this should definitely be on your list as it is the biggest hot air ballooning event in the world! The festival is always in October, but the dates do change each year. ~ Jessica

Janice Post author

November 5, 2016 at 9:28 pm

How fun would that be to see hundreds of balloons all rise up together in the sky! That was a magical sight for us in Cappadocia, Turkey, where we took our first (and only, hopefully not last!) hot-air balloon ride. It was such a magical sight seeing all the colorful balloons soaring over Cappadocia’s “fairy chimneys.” It was amazingly peaceful too — except for the whooshing sound of the flames shooting up over our heads keeping the balloon afloat…

November 11, 2016 at 4:42 am

It is a great place to see so many balloons, definitely the best balloon event in the world. We were actually supposed to go to Cappadocia later this month but it looks like that trip the Turkey may need to be postponed until next year. Maybe we’ll see if we can do a hot air balloon ride there as well:) ~ Jessica

Anna Post author

November 5, 2016 at 6:44 am

So many balloons – very impressive! The pics look lovely! I was always dreaming of riding in a hot balloon, would definitely try it one day!

November 5, 2016 at 6:47 am

Hi Anna, Thanks, and hope you get the opportunity to ride in a hot air balloon some day! ~ Jessica

Ruth Post author

November 4, 2016 at 6:27 pm

I am stunned (in a good way) with all these photos. This event is way more fascinating than I thought. I once went to a small event in California’s desert but the mass ascension was canceled because Obama was in town (that was a bit maddening). The good thing is that I was able to see how the balloons were inflated. That was cool. I am happy to learn that this event in Albuquerque is affordable. It would be awesome to drive from Los Angeles to attend. #TheWeeklyPostcard

November 5, 2016 at 6:16 am

Hi Ruth, That is disappointing to hear about the balloon event being cancelled, especially due to a non-weather related event! Yes, I love at these events that you can walk up to the balloons and see them being set up and inflated and talk to members of the crew. The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is definitely not expensive in terms of entrance fees/parking, it is just paying the travel costs which are higher at that time throughout the city. But since you are within driving distance, that would definitely decrease your costs. Just book your lodging well in advance. Jessica

Lyn @ A Hole in my Shoe Post author

November 4, 2016 at 5:51 pm

Jessica, you always write about such amazing events and places, but those photos! They are just stunning and anyone who didn’t have plans to see a balloon festival will surely want to now. Yet another great post.

November 5, 2016 at 6:08 am

Hi Lyn, Thanks so much for the sweet comment. I think everyone should try to see a balloon festival at least one, even if it is not this one! Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is definitely the ultimate one though 😉 An amazing place for photographers! Jessica

Anisa Post author

November 4, 2016 at 3:08 pm

This has been on my bucket list for awhile, I really want to go. I have heard so many great things about it and your pictures are amazing. Thanks for sharing your experience and tips here!

November 4, 2016 at 4:53 pm

Hi Anisa, Yes, I think this is on many people’s bucket lists! The photos you can take here are amazing! ~ Jessica

Lolo Post author

November 4, 2016 at 1:15 pm

You had me at balloon festival!! I’ve allllways wanted to go to a festival, but have yet to make it to one! I’ve definitely saved this for if I ever made it to Albuquerque one day for the festival!

November 4, 2016 at 4:52 pm

Hi Lolo, I hope you have a chance to get to Albuquerque for the Balloon Fiesta, it is certainly a festival worth planning ahead for! ~ Jessica

Anda Post author

November 4, 2016 at 1:10 pm

I’ve heard they had a pretty bad accident this year. A friend of mine happened to be in one of those balloons. He came out with some minor cuts, but a good scare. I would love to attend one of these “fiestas,” but just as a spectator.

November 4, 2016 at 4:38 pm

Hi Anda, Sorry to hear that, but actually as far as I know there were no serious accidents this year (in terms of injuries) at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, and the news loves to report on any accidents. There tends to be about one accident each year, but typically not anything deadly.

The main accident this year was a balloon (the Outlander alien balloon) that crashed into a power line but no one was seriously injured although I think a crew member received a minor burn in trying to help the passengers out and one of the passengers received a minor injury when climbing out of the gondola. It also caused a hole in the balloon and a small power outage.

Then a second balloon that morning after landing touched a power line but there were no injuries there. We actually landed nearby the balloon that morning on our own flight and heard the power line snap and a loud “boom” sound which was a little scary and we were all happy to hear there were no serious injuries.

I think most of the injuries related to ballooning happen when landing especially if people are not prepared as it can be very bumpy and I have definitely be flung forward. Laurence has a bent camera lens from his very first balloon ride when another passenger did not brace herself when landing and she ended up falling onto and denting his lens.

I have a fear of heights but personally feel quite safe in hot air balloons (they move so smoothly in the air) but always have a little dread for the landings 🙂

But there is definitely always risk and being a spectator is definitely the safest way to enjoy the Balloon Fiesta and the views are wonderful from the field! ~ Jessica

Paul and Carole Post author

November 4, 2016 at 12:55 pm

Wow what a comprehensive post! Everything you would need to know, never been to a balloon festival but looks a great event to attend. Thanks for sharing!

November 4, 2016 at 4:51 pm

Hi Paul & Carole, Yes, I love the Balloon Fiesta, one of my favorite festivals I’ve ever attended. In the UK, the Bristol Balloon Fiesta is the largest in Europe and I think second only to Albuquerque. It has about 200 or so balloons I think each year. We are hoping to try to catch it next summer. Best, Jessica

Seana Turner Post author

November 4, 2016 at 8:19 am

I’ve had my eye on this one for awhile. I’ve never had the freedom to travel at this time, but I may be getting the stage where I can actually do this. I love your reviews because you give the level of detail we all need to know – like about the bathroom situation. I think I might go for the upgrade!

November 4, 2016 at 8:35 am

Hi Seana, The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is an amazing festival and one I would highly recommend if you have the chance to attend. In fact, the entire state of New Mexico is worth a visit as there are so many great attractions and landscapes throughout the state. Yes, the porta potties can get a bit gross as the festival day progresses although they are of course cleaned each day. However, even as media we still only had access to a couple of shared porta potties with another tent. But the ones on the opposite side of the field are much less frequently used. But yep with the upgrades you do get dedicated toilet facilities along with several other perks! ~ Jessica

Kaye B. Post author

August 5, 2016 at 3:33 am

Hi, thanks for your suggestions and photos! I attended the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta last year, 2015, for the first time. Learned some useful things that can help others (most are just repeating tips you already gave!): 1) Take a shuttle bus as you said. Easier and cheaper to do. 2) Get up early to arrive at buses b y5am or bit afterward 3) Once on fields, use a small flashlight to walk around fields and find the balloon(s) in dark that the crew are starting to get ready to inflate. Be nice to people setting up, and u can get great shots into balloons 4) Dress warmly, in layers. Hiking boots are nice and keep feet dry. 5) If u are toward back of middle field, more balloons will float by u. 6) Go more than 2 days, in case weather is bad.

My camera went bad, and I bought a new Nikon D750 camera w/ battery the day before the Fiesta – yikes! I put camera on Auto and it did great, except for some photos before sunrise. Photo tips: 1) Be sure you gave lots of space on memory cards & be sure to charge camera battery night before 2) Bring backup camera, and 1-2 extra batteries. 3) Bring a polarizer to use, if sky is bright, and blue. Not cloudy or overcast days. 4) Unless u will be in one place, leave tripod behind. Too bulky. 5) Before sun comes up, increase ISO to 800 or more to give u enough light. Then change it back after sun comes up. 6) Try to bring a smaller camera bag. Less to carry around, or worry about between your legs when shooting. 7) Try different angles or perspectives to get a unique photo. Look up, lay on ground and shoot pics, or shoot from a tethered balloon that’s on the property. 9) Drive near the Balloon Museum and park there, or nearby street. Balloons will be going in all directions, as they go where the wind blows. It worked well for me. 8) remember to put down the camera and take in the magnitude of the balloons and the event – enjoy yourself!! Hope that helps.

August 6, 2016 at 2:53 pm

Hi Kaye, Glad you found our suggestions useful and sounds like you had a great time at the Albuquerque International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta last year. Thanks for sharing so much about your own experience and some tips you have for others, I am sure they will help future readers. We are actually returning to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta this year so very excited to be there again! ~ Jessica

Don Peterson Post author

November 13, 2015 at 9:03 pm

Love the post! If you want some photos from the 2015 Albuquerque Balloon fiesta, I have a collection that is free to download and use as you please.

November 25, 2015 at 7:13 am

Thanks, we have plenty of photos of our own:)

Carmen Donaldson Post author

February 17, 2014 at 5:57 pm

Thanks you guys for the real life information. Getting ready to book travel and hotel for October 2014.

February 17, 2014 at 9:02 pm

Thanks for stopping by and commenting Carmen! I am so happy to hear this article helped with some of your trip planning. I am jealous as I can’t wait to see the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta again.

Pat Kobierski Post author

November 8, 2013 at 6:13 pm

My husband, sister brother in law and I were in Vegas when we heard about the balloon festival..We decided it was once in a life time chance to see the festival..Oh my what a thrill we had..We stayed in the RV park, which has shuttles to the balloon site constantly..It was like a fantastic dream…We are still talking about it and telling everyone we can that you ever get the chance go see it…My sister and her husband were part of a crew..and that was also a life time expierience…

November 8, 2013 at 9:30 pm

Thank you for your comment Pat. I am so glad to hear that you had such a wonderful experience at the Balloon Fiesta!

KC Saling Post author

October 1, 2013 at 8:05 am

Beautiful pictures! I love ballooning – it’s like tubing in the air!

October 1, 2013 at 7:13 pm

Thanks, we’ve never actually gone up in the balloons yet, but it sounds like you had a lot of fun.

Rachel Post author

October 1, 2013 at 6:34 am

Ahh, I would love to do this someday! We were going to try and ride in a hot air balloon while we were living in Arizona but ran out of time. That’s what happen when you’re only in a location for 6 months I guess!

October 1, 2013 at 7:14 pm

Yes, it is such a fun and beautiful event. I know, I spent a year in Albuquerque and still never got to half the places I thought I would!

September 29, 2013 at 1:57 am

What a beautiful event! Watching hundred of colorful balloons rising with the crisp morning sun against the amazing New Mexico landscape sounds like a great way to start the day! I just love the photos!

September 30, 2013 at 8:29 am

Yes, it is such a beautiful event!!

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• FAQs - Balloon Fiesta
• Maps & Directions
• Courtesy Shuttle and Fiesta Transport
• ADA-Accessability
• Albuquerque Aloft
• America's Challenge
• Balloon Glows
• Competition
• Dawn Patrol
• Fiesta de Los Globitos
• Mass Ascension
• Special Shape Rodeo/Glowdeo®
• Balloon Discovery Center
• Chainsaw Carving

Music Fiesta

• Photos-Photographers
• Photo Contest
• Travel Help
• Official Mobile App Sponsored by Visit Albuquerque
• Chasers' Club

Concierge Program

Fiesta sky box.

• General Admission
• Gondola Club
• Group Tours
• Park & Ride

Purchase Tickets

• Balloon Rides
• RV Information
• History of Ballooning
• Balloonist's Prayer
• Special Shape Rodeo
• Gordon Bennett 2023
• Gordon Bennett News Releases and Announcements
• Gordon Bennett
• History of Gas Ballooning
• FAQ's - Gas Ballooning
• Gas vs Hot Air
• 2023 Pilot Search
• Pilot List All Years
• Pilot News/FAQs
• Pilot & Crew Videos
• International Pilots
• Competition scores
• Remote Control Balloons
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• Pilot Application
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• AIBF Official Merchandise Online
• Concessions
• Buy a Brick Program
• Bumper Stickers

Tickets on sale now! 

Balloon Fiesta is a weather dependent event and tickets are 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 are still welcome to enjoy all the amenities Balloon Fiesta has to offer for the remainder of the session. In case of a rain-checked session, please retain your ticket. Your ticket will be re-activated in the form of a General Admission ticket, valid for any remaining session in the current year. 

The status of Balloon Fiesta sessions will be available on the Website and Official App.  Please note that ticket availability is not guaranteed until transaction is complete. 

If you experience difficulty completing your ticket purchase: Call or text us at 505-227-8737 Email us at  [email protected]

For RV reservation information, email rvspace @balloonfiesta.com

Tickets for the Balloon Museum can be purchased  here . The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is not affiliated with the Anderson Abruzzo International Balloon Museum   

****Click here to find what's allowed at Balloon Fiesta Park****  

General Admission Tickets

$15 per person, per session Children 12 and under are free

IMPORTANT ITEMS TO REMEMBER ABOUT GENERAL ADMISSION TICKETS       •    One Session is all Morning activities OR all Evening activities       •    General Admission Tickets are good for one session, any day       •    2024 General Admission tickets are valid for any one session in 2024       •    Attendance capacity at Balloon Fiesta Park is not limited       •    There are no evening sessions Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or the last Sunday

Attention New Mexico Residents!         •    Monday, October 7, 2024 will be New Mexico Day at the Balloon Fiesta           •    As a special thank you for your support through the years, general admission will be free on that day for all New Mexico residents         •    Present your photo ID or utility bill with a New Mexico address to a ticket booth (located next to all gates) and receive your ticket         •    This promotion will be Monday, October 7 only         •    No rainchecks or refunds will apply         •    Parking fees will still apply

Balloon Fiesta Gift Shop: Information about ticket availability in the Balloon Fiesta Gift Shop coming soon!

For additional details on all General Admission tickets, please visit the  General Admission page. 

PURCHASE TICKETS

Park & Ride Tickets

ALL PARK & RIDE TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED ONLINE ONLY    

Your Park & Ride experience includes       •    Round-trip transportation to and from Balloon Fiesta Park       •    Expedited route to bypass heavy traffic       •    Admission to the Balloon Fiesta event

Advanced purchase       •    Children (5 and under): FREE       •    C hildren (6-12): $13       •    Adults (13-61): $25       •    Seniors (62+): $23       •    Bus Only (6+): $13       •   Advance purchase applies to any purchase made before 12:00 a.m. on the day of service. All tickets must be purchased online  

Day of purchase          •    Children (5 and under): FREE       •    Children (6-12): $13       •    Adults (13-61): $28       •    Seniors (62+): $26       •    Bus Only (6+): $13       •    Day of purchase applies to any purchase made after 12:01 a.m. on the day of service. All tickets must be purchased online. There are no same day sales available at remote lots 

THERE IS NO PARK & RIDE BUS SERVICE ON MONDAY, TUESDAY, OR WEDNESDAY

For additional details, please visit the  Park & Ride page. 

Gondola Club Tickets

Individuals       •    $130 per person, per session       •    Children under 6 are free

Your Gondola Club experience includes       •   Admission to the event       •   Premium parking pass for the private Gondola Club parking area       •   Gourmet buffet meal       •   Host/open bar (three drink maximum)       •   Prime location for viewing the launch field       •   Shuttle service to and from the Gondola Club parking area and Main Street       •   Dedicated restrooms       •   Live entertainment during evening sessions       •   Collectible Gondola Club pin       •   Souvenir gift

For additional details and the food menu, please visit the  Gondola Club page. 

Chasers' Club Tickets

Individuals       •   $65 per person, per session       •   Children under 6 are free

Your Chasers' Club experience includes       •   Admission to the event       •   Guaranteed seating in a private open-air patio located on the north end of Balloon Fiesta Park       •   Access to private restrooms located within the Chasers' Club area       •   Beverages, dessert, and catered food       •   Access to a full cash bar

For additional details, or for groups of 14 or more, please visit the  Chasers' Club page. 

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 well as a hospitality area with grills, games and lounge chairs.

Your Glamping experience includes       •   Three night stay in a safari tent       •   Admission to the event for all sessions during your stay       •   Premium parking       •   Welcome gift       •   Linens, comforter and pillows       •   Heater and refrigerator       •   Electric blanket       •   Access to power for electronic devices       •   Lamp and lantern

Cost       •   (1) Queen Bed (3 nights for 1-2 guests) $1,600       •   (2) Twin Beds (3 nights for 1-2 guests) $1,600       •   (1) Twin Bed & (1) Queen Bed (3 nights for 3 guests) $2,100       •   (2) Queen Beds (3 nights for 4 guests) $2,600

Dates Available for 2024       •   10/4 to 10/7       •   10/7 to 10/10  * There are no evening events scheduled for these dates       •   10/10 to 10/13

For additional details, please visit the  Glamping  page . 

Camp 505 offers a more affordable option for guests interested in tent camping during the Balloon Fiesta.  Tent accommodations are provided and will be set up prior to the guests' arrival.  Guests will have the option to keep the camp kit when they leave or guests can leave the equipment.

Your Camp 505 experience includes       •   Three night stay        •   Camping equipment       •   Admission to the event       •   Premium parking  *RV and car camping is not permitted in this parking area       •   Access to portable toilets       •   24-hour security       •   (2) Refillable water bottles       •   Access to filtered water       •   Access to a phone charging station       •   Hospitality area with firepit and gas grill

Camp kit       •   Three person pop-up tent        •   (2)  Sleeping bags        •    Large saddle blanket        •   (2)  Camp lights

Cost        •   Three nights for (2) guests - $800        •    Maximum (3) guests per tent

Dates Available for 2024        •   10/4 to 10/7       •   10/7 to 10/10 *There are no evening events scheduled for these dates       •   10/10 to 10/13

For additional details, please visit the  Camp 505 page. 

For the ultimate VIP experience you can arrange for your own concierge to be your tour guide while at the Balloon Fiesta. You will experience the event from all angles of the launch field. 

Your Concierge Program experience includes       •    A personal concierge for the duration of your session        •   Golf cart transportation with driver        •   (1) Premium parking pass        •   General Admission tickets        •   Balloon Fiesta gift 

Cost       •   $350 per session (1-2 guests)       •   $400 per session (3 guests)       •   $450 per session (4 guests)   *Maximum 4 guests per cart     Children 3 and under are free

For additional details, please visit the  Concierge Program page. 

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 to the Fiesta Skybox Patio    • (20) admission tickets    • (7) premium parking passes    • Specialty individual Grazing Boxes    • Host bar (three drink maximum)    • Non-alcoholic drinks    • Dedicated restrooms

Price    • $5000 per session, per box for 1-20 guests    • Maximum capacity is twenty (20) guests per Fiesta Sky Box 

Hours    •  Morning Sessions: 5 am – 10 am (Bar hours 7 am – 9:30 am)    • Evening Sessions: 4:30 pm – 9 pm (Bar hours 4:30 pm – 8:30 pm)

A host will be assigned to each Fiesta Sky Box to assist guests as needed. 

For more information contact Shamaine Giannini at 505.300.4565 or  [email protected]

For additional details, please visit the  Fiesta Sky Box page. 

2024 Music Fiesta lineup and ticket information coming soon!

Additional information including seating area details can be found on the  Music Fiesta page. 

2024 Music Fiesta Info Coming Soon!

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October 4 - 9, 2024

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta 2024

Travel with Southwest Adventure Tours on an experience to one of the greatest visual spectacles on Earth - The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta!  During this journey, you will not only be thrilled by the balloons, you will also be touched by the enduring Pueblo Culture that has existed for centuries and continues to thrive today in this Land of Enchantment.  

Booking Deadline: June 21, 2024

Request More Information

Download Brochure

Included Features

• General Info

Rates Per Person:

Single, Triple and Quad occupancy accommodations are extremely limited and not guaranteed until space is confirmed. 

All non-members must add $60 to the above rates.

Rates are subject to availability at time of booking and include taxes, fees and fuel surcharges, which are subject to change. All pricing and included features are based on a minimum of 8 passengers.

*Desired pick-up location is not guaranteed until passenger minimums are met.

• Free parking with roundtrip transfers to a local airport* (will not be offered if group air is from Harrisburg International Airport)
• Roundtrip airfare from a local airport to Albuquerque, NM (will be an early morning departure)
• Roundtrip transfers - airport/hotel
• Services of and gratuities for the Southwest Adventure Tours Tour Director/Driver
• Sightseeing as stated in itinerary by Mercedes Sprinter Vans (or similar)
• 5-night hotel accommodations
• Meals: 5 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches & 3 Dinners
• Tour entrance fees as stated in the itinerary
• All local taxes, hotel service charges & porterage for one suitcase per person
• Services of a Discoveries Ride Along Host to and from the airport
• Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
• Dawn Patrol
• Old Town Albuquerque
• Albuquerque Museum
• Sandia Peak Tramway
• Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
• Twilight Twinkle Glow™
• AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show
• Real-life ghost town of Madrid
• Turquoise Trail to Taos
• Taos Pueblo
• Santa Fe Tour

Friday, October 4, 2024: Travel to Albuquerque 

Transfer to a local airport for a flight to Albuquerque, New Mexico (This will be a very early morning pickup. This transfer will not be offered if your flight is out of Harrisburg International Airport). Upon arrival at Albuquerque International Sunport, you will be met by your Southwest Adventures Tours Director/Driver who will take you to your hotel. After some free time to relax, rejoin your group for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Uptown (or similar), Albuquerque (Dinner)

Saturday, October 5, 2024: Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Today you will learn why Albuquerque is called the Balloon Capital of the World as you experience the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Depart for an early morning (approximately, 4:30am) transfer to the Fiesta Field to witness the Dawn Patrol and have breakfast at the Chasers Club. The Dawn Patrol began at the Balloon Fiesta in 1978, when two California balloonists developed position lighting systems, which allowed them to fly at night. Dawn Patrol pilots take off in the dark and fly until it's light enough to see landing sites. At dawn when the wind is most calm, watch the Mass Ascension in a rainbow of colors. Later this morning, take a drive through Albuquerque, "The Jewel of the American Southwest," on your way to historic Old Town where you will visit the Albuquerque Museum which focuses on the art, history and culture of Albuquerque. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore hidden courtyards, stroll under covered portals and shop and eat at the many fine specialty stores, restaurants and galleries around the Plaza on your own. Old Town's tree-lined plaza and charming adobe buildings and churches are sure to delight the sightseer in all of us!  After an exciting day, return to your hotel with the rest of the evening free to relax and have dinner on your own. (Breakfast)

Sunday, October 6, 2024: Sandia Peak, Puebloan Cultural Center & AfterGlow ™ Fireworks Show

This morning, join the group for an experience high above the valley as you ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway for spectacular views. You will ascend one of America's most stunning urban peaks. Reaching the 10,378-foot crest of the Sandia Mountains, an 11,000 square mile panoramic view awaits you. It's an elevation of the body, mind and soul in a mere 15 minutes. Then experience a fascinating introduction to the way of life enjoyed by America's first "apartment dwellers," the Pueblo tribes of the Southwest. At the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, you will see artifacts and crafts while learning about the cultural and religious customs that have helped preserve this society for over 1,000 years. Return to your hotel with some time to relax. Then you're off to Balloon Fiesta Park to enjoy dinner at the Chaser Club with direct access onto Fiesta Field for the Twilight Twinkle Glow™ and AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show. The Twilight Twinkle Glow™ starts when all the balloons fire their burners and light up at the same time. It is perhaps the most spectacular single moment in the entire Balloon Fiesta. The balloon glow is followed by New Mexico's most spectacular fireworks display. Together they are Balloon Fiesta's most popular events. (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Monday, October 7, 2024: Chimayo, Taos & Santa Fe

Today, we are off to Santa Fe! The Turquoise Trail (or High Road), named for the exquisite mineral that was once mined here, leads you to your first stop of the day, the real-life ghost town of Madrid. Madrid looks exactly like a ghost town should, with its rows of empty, ramshackle houses that once were the homes of three thousand miners and their families. The only sign of life now is the artists who come to paint this picturesque place, and display their wares to the interested buyer. Continue through Santa Fe to Chimayo, home of the Santuario de Chimayo, a National historic landmark, and where the descendants of Spanish weavers and woodcarvers still ply their crafts. After a stop to observe the artisans, continue your scenic drive to the world class resort town of Taos. Founded in 1617 by the Spanish, Taos has kept its Spanish and Indian influences. Arrive at Taos Plaza with free time to wander the streets, enjoying the local cuisine, unique atmosphere, and browse the offerings of many artists who have come here to capture the allure of this delightful place. Then visit Taos Pueblo, a village that has been inhabited for more than 800 years, and whose adobe structures have changed little since the first Spanish explorers saw them in the 1540's. As you return to Santa Fe, stop for a scenic view of the Rio Grande, a legendary river that cuts a distinct path through the history of the Southwest. Check into your Santa Fe hotel with the evening free for dinner on your own. Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott (or similar),  Santa Fe. (Breakfast & Lunch)

Tuesday, October 8, 2024: Santa Fe

Today enjoy a full day exploring and experiencing the first state capitol of the United States, "The Royal City of the Holy Faith of Saint Francis," better known as Santa Fe. Founded in 1609, the city offers many historic and scenic delights. Begin your day with an intimate tour of Santa Fe, a walking tour to the many famous sights including the historic Santa Fe Plaza with a view of the Palace of the Governors, the Loretto Chapel, a miniature model of the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, and the oldest church in New Mexico and more. The afternoon will be yours for lunch and free time to explore the many wonderful shops and art galleries on your own. Take a chance to stroll through the Indian Market, where native arts and crafts are available directly from the artists who created them. This evening you will rejoin the group for a special farewell dinner as you finish exploring this enchanting land. (Breakfast & Dinner)

Wednesday, October 9, 2024: Journey Home

After breakfast, transfer to the Albuquerque airport for your flight and transportation back to Central PA. (Breakfast)

*Hotels and itinerary are subject to change at any time without advanced notice and/or compensation.

Activity Level 3: This tour requires moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours as well as walking slightly longer distances, upstairs, or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected.

General Information

Travel documents:.

A valid government issued photo I.D. (drivers license or Passport) is required for airport security.

As travel requirements are rapidly changing due to COVID-19, final requirements will be communicated prior to departure.

Deposit of $250 per person will confirm your reservation. Final payment is due to AAA by  June 21, 2024.

Cancellation Penalties:

Deposit date to day of departure-    $25 per person, plus..... After June 21, 2024-                        100% non-refundable

Air arrangements are handled by the tour operator. Seat assignments cannot be confirmed until the tour operator releases names to the airline(s) 30 days prior to departure. Specific seat requests cannot be guaranteed. Some flights may contain code share agreements.

For your protection, AAA recommends travel insurance. Pre-existing medical conditions may be waived with proper coverage if travel insurance is purchased within 14 days of initial deposit only. Other conditions may apply; ask your travel agent. AAA recommends Allianz.

Clothing/Climate:

Temperatures for New Mexico in October average in the high 60s during the day with cooler mornings and evenings. Pack for a variety of temperatures. Casual clothes that can be layered work best. Comfortable walking shoes and a small umbrella are recommended.

One suitcase per person will be allowed. You may also bring a carry-on bag small enough to fit under your seat. Baggage fees are not included in the price of the trip. Baggage fees and other charges may be directly assessed by airlines or airport.

Travel Assistance:

For personal comfort, group participants who need assistance are required to have a traveling companion who is capable of and totally responsible for providing those needing assistance.

Consumer Disclosure Notice - Part of Contract of Service.

Please read this notice, it constitutes part of your contract for travel-related services.  AAA TRAVEL is acting as a mere agent for SUPPLIERS in selling travel-related services, or in accepting reservations or bookings for services that are not directly supplied by this travel agency (such as air and ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). This agency, therefore, shall not be responsible for breach of contract or any intentional or careless actions or omissions on part of such suppliers, which result in any loss, damage, delay or injury to you or your travel companions or group members. Unless the term "guaranteed" is specifically stated in writing on your tickets, invoice, or reservation itinerary, we do not guarantee any of such suppliers’ rates, bookings, reservations, connections, scheduling, or handling of personal effects. Travel agent shall not be responsible for any injuries, damages, or losses to any traveler in connection with terrorist activities, social or labor unrest, climatic conditions, abnormal conditions or developments, or any other actions, omissions, or conditions outside the travel agent’s control. Traveler assumes complete and full responsibility for, and hereby releases the agent from any duty of, checking and verifying any and all passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements of each destination, and all safety or security conditions at such destinations. For information concerning possible dangers at international destinations, contact the Travel Advisory Section of the U.S. State Department. For medical information, call the Public Health Service. By embarking upon his/her travel, the traveler voluntarily assumes all risks involved in such travel, whether expected or unexpected. Traveler is hereby warned of such risks, and is advised to obtain appropriate insurance coverage against them. Traveler’s acceptance and retention of tickets, reservations, or bookings after issuance shall constitute a consent of the above, and an agreement on his/her part to convey the contents hereto to his/her travel companions or group members.

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