Dreaming of a trip to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta? This fun, comprehensive visitors guide covers everything you need to know to plan a bucket list-worthy experience at the popular Balloon Festival!
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The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta had been on my bucket list for years. So when I had a chance to go, I jumped at the opportunity, and it did not disappoint.
After a chilly morning filled with anticipation, watching those first hot air balloons float into the air was truly magical! I've since been to the Festival a few times, and each visit has been just as breathtaking.
Are you thinking about planning your own visit? Then you've come to right spot! You'll find everything you need to know about visiting the Balloon Festival below ... from trip planning info to photography tips and so much more!
Ready to start planning your visit? Keep reading for all my helpful tips!
About the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Each year, hundreds of balloon teams gather in Albuquerque for the world's largest hot air balloon festival ... and hundreds of thousands of festival-goers show up to watch these vibrant, colorful balloons fill the sky!
It's an experience like no other, and it's been drawing crowds for years (2022 marked the festival's 50th anniversary). Each year, the popular event draws over 500 balloons, 600 pilots from around the world, and hundreds of thousands of visitors.
What makes the Balloon Fiesta unique is that you can gather on the field and walk among the balloons. You'll be steps away as pilots launch their balloons into a sky filled with hundreds of other colorful and unique balloons.
It's truly an amazing sight!
Ready to start planning?
With such a popular, crowded event, it's essential to plan ahead. You'll find all the important information, plus tons of tips below ... keep scrolling to read everything, or use the links below to quickly jump to a specific section.
Why Albuquerque? | Dates | Hours | Tickets | Location | Getting There + Parking | Events | 2025 Schedule | Balloon Rides | Balloon Museum | Food + Drink | Souvenirs | What to Wear | Photography Equipment | Photography Tips | Where to Stay | Trip Planning Tips | FAQs | More Info | Other Things to Do in Albuquerque
Why Albuquerque?
Hot air balloon festivals take place around the world, but there are a few reasons why Albuquerque is such a great location for this festival.
First of all, fall mornings in Albuquerque are generally cool with clear skies and stable weather. Balloon pilots have no way to steer their balloons (they move with the wind), so good weather is essential.
And then, there's the Albuquerque Box. This unique weather phenomenon causes wind patterns to move in opposite directions at higher and lower elevations. The Albuquerque Box enables skilled pilots to land near where they took off, simply by changing elevation.
Even so, the Albuquerque Box is fairly rare ... it only occurs about 30% of the time. So chase crews are needed to track and to pick up balloons when they touch down.
Balloon Festival 101
Before we get to the fun stuff, let's talk about the basics.
Dates
The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is an annual event that's held for nine days in the beginning of October. In 2025, the festival will run from Saturday, October 4 to Sunday, October 12.
If you can't attend the festival this year, plan on attending in the future! In 2026, the Fiesta will be held from October 3 to October 11, in 2027, the festival will take place from October 2 to October 10, and in 2028, the festival will take place from October 7 to October 15.
Hours
Balloon Fiesta Park opens at 4:30 AM for morning sessions. For evening sessions, the park opens at 3:00 PM. On days with a double session, the park stays open until about 9:00 PM. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, which are morning only-single session days, the park closes around noon.
Tickets
The Fiesta is broken into morning and evening sessions, each with different events. There are nine morning sessions (one on each day of the event) and five evening sessions held throughout the Fiesta. Each ticket is good for one morning session OR one evening session ... so if you're attending a day with morning AND evening sessions, you'll need two tickets.
There are a few types of tickets. You can purchase tickets online in advance, or buy General Admission tickets at the door. Although General Admission tickets don't sell out, the other types of tickets do, so purchase them as far in advance as possible. Tickets generally go on sale in April.
- General Admission - General admission tickets cost $15 per session (kids 12 and under are free) and grant you access to the field. One ticket is good for any session (morning or afternoon), on any day. You can also purchase Five-Session Tickets ahead of time at the Fiesta Park Gift Shop.
- Park & Ride - Avoid the hassle of dealing with traffic and parking with these tickets that include round-trip transportation and admission to the Balloon Fiesta. Tickets are free for children 5 and under, $13 for kids 6 to 12, $25 for adults (and kids 13+), or $23 for seniors (62+). These tickets can be purchased in advance, either online or in person at the Balloon Fiesta Gift Shop. They often sell out, and tickets purchased the day of your ride prices are priced slightly higher. Park & Ride is not available on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday when crowds are smaller.
- Chasers' Club - Enjoy seats on a private outdoor patio next to the launch field with Chaser's Club tickets, which can be purchased for $75 per person, per session (kids 5 and under are free). The cost includes New Mexican food, cookies, and beverages, and a cash bar is available.
- Gondola Club - For a more upscale experience, choose Gondola Club tickets which cost $150 per adult, per session (kids 5 and under are free). You'll have access to a private area and seat away from the crowds, food, courtesy shuttles, indoor restrooms, and entertainment.
- Concierge Program - For a truly VIP experience, you'll want to register for the Concierge Program. Tickets cost $350 per session for one to two adults, and each additional person is $50 (four guests max). The program includes a personal concierge, golf cart transportation, premium parking pass, admission tickets, and a gift.
- Fiesta Sky Box - Heading to the Fiesta with a large group and looking for an all-inclusive, luxury experience? Check out the Fiesta Sky Boxes, specially outfitted shipping containers with patios, upper deck seating with amazing views, food, and drinks. Sky Boxes cost $5000 per session and hold up to 20 people.
- Music Fiesta - This afternoon event includes a roster of amazing musicians and is followed by the Night Magic Glow and AfterGlow fireworks. Prices range from $15 for general admission all the way up to $499 for the Ultimate Music Fiesta Package.
Tickets are non-refundable, however rain checks are available for individual flying sessions that are cancelled due to weather or other safety considerations (excluding the Music Fiesta, which is a rain or shine event). Hold onto your tickets if this happens so you can get back in the next day.
Location
All balloon launches and other events take place at Balloon Fiesta Park. The park is located at is located north of Alameda Boulevard, one mile west of I-25.
Getting There
There are a few different ways to get to Balloon Fiesta Park, each with its own benefits. You can check out maps and find directions before you visit.
- Driving - Give yourself plenty of time if you plan on driving to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Traffic gets very backed up, and parking is first-come, first-serve. Lots are located at the north, east, and south ends of the park, and parking costs $20 per vehicle, per session (cash only).
- Park & Ride - Save yourself the hassle of waiting in long traffic lines by taking the Park & Ride. These buses stop at four Albuquerque locations, and the cost, which is free for children 5 and under, $13 for kids 6 to 12, $25 for adults (and kids 13+), or $23 for seniors (62+), includes admission to the Fiesta. You can purchase these tickets in advance (prices are slightly higher day of and may sell out). Park & Ride is not available on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday.
- Ride Share - It's also possible to take a ride share, such as Uber or Lyft, to the Fiesta. Use your app, and your driver will bring you to the designated drop off / pick up area, which is south of the park and east of the intersection of Alameda Blvd. NE and Horizon. Expect surge pricing and a walk once you get there.
- Bike Valet - Biking to the Balloon Fiesta is a great way to avoid traffic congestion, and you can use the convenient and free Bike Valet to store your bike once you arrive. To get there, follow the bike trail that runs along the AMAFCA North Diversion Channel that crosses underneath Paseo del Norte and Alameda, ending just north of the Balloon Museum. The Bike Valet is open from 4:30 AM to 10:30 AM during morning sessions, from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM during evening sessions, and from 11:00 AM to 4:30 PM during the Music Fiesta. Find more information here.
- Walking - If you are staying in an on-site RV or glamping site, it's possible to walk to the park. There are a few hotels a little over a mile away as well, and we actually saw some people walking. Just keep in mind that traffic surrounding the park is heavy. Be very careful when crossing streets.
Daily Events
Now that you know how to get there, let's talk about the events! Each day's schedule is filled with different events, and these events are the highlight of the Fiesta. Some of the events, like Dawn Patrol, take place every day. Others, like the popular Mass Ascension, do not.
Here's an overview of what you can expect:
Drone Light Show
Illuminated drones light up the dark skies during this daily show, which takes place in the morning before Dawn Patrol, as well as some evenings before the fireworks.
Dawn Patrol
During this daily show, Dawn Patrol pilots head up before sunrise and keep flying until it's light enough to see the landing sights. These flights give other crews important information about wind speeds and direction. Balloons begin inflating about 5:45 AM, then launch around 6:00 AM (weather permitting).
Morning Glow
During this show, which takes place right after the Dawn Patrol, a baker's dozen balloons light up the field with their glow. Once the sun rises, they take off with the other balloons.
Mass Ascension
Hundreds of balloons take to the skies during this show, which can last up to two hours. This event is many attendees' favorite, so try to catch one if possible. If you do miss it, you can still watch smaller launches on the other days.
Flight of the Nations
The Fiesta is an international event. During this show, a team from each country flies their country's flag as they take off.
Special Shape Rodeo and Glowdeo
All the balloons at the festival are beautiful, but the shaped ones are especially unique. You'll see balloons shaped into everything from stagecoaches to animals, spaceships, and more! During the Rodeo, these balloons take flight, and during the Glowdeo, they inflate but stay grounded so you can get a closeup view.
Evening Balloon Glows
During these special events (Twilight Twinkle Glow, Balloon Glow, Night Magic Glow), balloons are inflated, but stay tethered to the ground. As the pilots ignite the balloons, the sky fills with their glowing colors. These evenings end with a laser and fireworks show.
AfterGlow Fireworks Show
This evening event takes place after the balloons have been cleared from the field. Bring chairs or a blanket so you can watch them comfortably.
Competitions
A number of competitions take place during the Balloon Fiesta. These challenges, which range from pilots attempting to land their balloons on a designated target or drop a ring on a tall pole, are tests of skill. The America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race, where the team that flies the furthest wins, also takes place during the festival.
Music Fiesta
This afternoon music festival takes place on the Fiesta's grounds and features a fun lineup of musicians. After the music is done, stick around for the evening's Night Magic Glow and AfterGlow fireworks. Past Music Fiestas have featured performances by 3 Dog Night, Old Dominion, Michael Ray, the Marshall Tucker Band, Little Texas, Darius Rucker, Sawyer Brown, Josh Turner, the Band Perry, Chris Young, and Billy Currington.
Other Events
Many other events take place during the fiesta, including chainsaw carving, skydiving, and more. Main Street is also a hub for performers ... we saw an amazing show with Native American dancers during our visit. During Albuquerque Aloft, which is held the day before the Fiesta opens, pilots launch their balloons from schools in Albuquerque and Rio Rancho.
Balloon Festival Schedule
The schedule changes daily, so decide which events are musts before planning your trip. For example, most people want to see a Mass Ascension and a Balloon Glow.
Another thing to keep in mind is that bad weather (such as wind, rain, or low clouds) may cause cancellations. It's best to plan a multi-day visit ... you don't want to be in a situation where everything is cancelled on the one day you attend, right?
And don't worry, there are plenty of other things to do in Albuquerque (not to mention nearby Santa Fe) if you feel like you've seen it all after a couple days! See my tips at the end of this article.
Okay, enough advice! Here's the 2025 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta schedule (events are subject to change, find the most updated schedule here):
Saturday, October 4
- 5:45 AM: Drone Light Show
- 6:00 AM: Dawn Patrol Show
- 6:30 AM: Morning Glow
- 7:00 AM: Opening Ceremonies
- 7:00 AM: Mass Ascension
- 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM: Chainsaw Carving Exhibition
- 10:00 AM: Chainsaw Carving Auction
- 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM: Chainsaw Carving Exhibition
- 5:00 PM: Team Fastrax Skydiving
- 6:30 PM: Twilight Twinkle Glow
- 7:30 PM: Team Fastrax Skydiving
- 7:45 PM: Drone Light Show
- 8:00 PM: AfterGlow Fireworks Show
Sunday, October 5
- 5:45 AM: Drone Light Show
- 6:00 AM: Dawn Patrol Show
- 6:30 AM: Morning Glow
- 7:00 AM: Mass Ascension
- 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM: Fiesta de Los Globitos
- 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM: Chainsaw Carving Exhibition
- 11:00 AM: Balloon Fiesta Pin Trading
- 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM: Chainsaw Carving Exhibition
- 5:00 PM: Team Fastrax Skydiving
- 6:30 PM: Balloon Glow
- 7:30 PM: Team Fastrax Skydiving
- 7:45 PM: Drone Light Show
- 8:00 PM: AfterGlow Fireworks Show
Monday, October 6
- 5:45 AM: Drone Light Show
- 6:00 AM: Dawn Patrol
- 7:00 AM: Balloon Launch
- 8:00 AM: Fly In Competition
- 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM: Chainsaw Carving Exhibition
- 5:30 PM: Globito Glow in the Village
Tuesday, October 7
- 5:45 AM: Drone Light Show
- 6:00 AM: Dawn Patrol
- 7:00 AM: Balloon Launch
- 8:00 AM: Fly In Competition
- 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM: Chainsaw Carving Exhibition
Wednesday, October 8
- 5:45 AM: Drone Light Show
- 6:00 AM: Dawn Patrol
- 6:30 AM: Morning Glow
- 7:00 AM: Flight of the Nations Mass Ascension
- 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM: Fiestas de Los Globitos
- 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM: Chainsaw Carving Exhibition
Thursday, October 9
- 5:45 AM: Drone Light Show
- 6:00 AM: Dawn Patrol
- 7:00 AM: Special Shape Rodeo
- 7:00 AM: Balloon Launch
- 8:00 AM: Fly In Competition
- 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM: Chainsaw Carving Exhibition
- 10:00 AM: Chainsaw Carving Auction
- 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM: Chainsaw Carving Exhibition
- 5:00 PM: Team Fastrax Skydiving
- 6:30 PM: Special Shape Glowdeo
- 7:30 PM: Team Fastrax Skydiving
- 7:45 PM: Drone Light Show
- 8:00 PM: AfterGlow Fireworks Show
Friday, October 10 (Kids’ Day)
- 4:30 AM: Kid's Day Goodie Bag Distribution Begins
- 5:45 AM: Drone Light Show
- 6:00 AM: Dawn Patrol
- 7:00 AM: Special Shape Rodeo
- 7:00 AM: Balloon Launch
- 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM: Fiestas de Los Globitos
- 8:00 AM: Fly In Competition
- 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM: Chainsaw Carving Exhibition
- 10:00 AM: Chainsaw Carving Auction
- 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM: Chainsaw Carving Exhibition
- 5:00 PM: Team Fastrax Skydiving
- 6:30 PM: Special Shape Glowdeo
- 7:30 PM: Team Fastrax Skydiving
- 7:45 PM: Drone Light Show
- 8:00 PM: AfterGlow Fireworks Show
Saturday, October 11
- 5:45 AM: Drone Light Show
- 6:00 AM: Dawn Patrol
- 6:30 AM: Morning Glow
- 7:00 AM: Mass Ascension
- 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM: Chainsaw Carving Exhibition
- 11:00 AM: Balloon Fiesta Pin Trading
- 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM: Chainsaw Carving Exhibition
- 5:00 PM: Team Fastrax Skydiving
- 6:30 PM: Night Magic Glow
- 6:30 PM: Fiestas de Los Globitos
- 7:30 PM: Team Fastrax Skydiving
- 7:45 PM: Drone Light Show
- 8:00 PM: AfterGlow Fireworks Show
Sunday, October 12
- 5:45 AM: Drone Light Show
- 6:00 AM: Dawn Patrol Show
- 6:30 AM: Morning Glow
- 7:00 AM: Farewell Mass Ascension
- 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM: Chainsaw Carving Exhibition
Hot Air Balloon Rides
Want to see the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta from the air? Take a ride in a hot air balloon with the Rainbow Riders! They're the only balloon company that's authorized to give balloon rides from Balloon Fiesta Park.
This is a bucket list experience—you'll enjoy unbeatable views of the other balloons, as well as the gorgeous southwest landscape—and prices definitely reflect it. Make sure to book your ride well in advance, because they do sell out!
If you do decide to go, the price includes parking and admission to the Fiesta, express check-in, access to a VIP lounge with a catered breakfast, and more.
Discovery Center and Museum
In between events, take a break from the field, and head to the Balloon Discovery Center. Here, you'll find a range of exhibits to help you learn about how hot air balloons work and the conditions that make the Albuquerque Box so special. It's FREE!
The Anderson Abruzzo International Balloon Museum is also located on Balloon Fiesta Park grounds. You can learn more about this history, science, and art of hot air balloons here (admission is $6 for adults / $5 for New Mexico residents).
In addition to their exhibits, the museum hosts a number of special events during the Fiesta, and you can also purchase special tickets to watch the Festival from their observation deck!
Food + Drink
There's not need to go hungry at the Balloon Fiesta! Simply head to Main Street, where you'll find a third-mile stretch of vendors selling food, drinks, and souvenirs. There's something for everyone here, including burgers, pizza, donuts, tacos, hot dogs, funnel cake, and much more. (It was a bit slim pickings for vegetarians / vegans though, at least when I went.)
If you're attending a morning session, I'd recommend heading the park hungry. You'll probably spend lots of time waiting around, and it will most likely be cold. Grab a breakfast burrito and cup of hot coffee on Main Street to warm you up.
Best Souvenirs
As you walk along Main Street, you'll also find plenty of opportunities to pick up a souvenir from a shop or a cart. We spotted all the usual suspects, including magnets, t-shirts, and lots more. There are vendors selling arts and crafts and other products, as well.
Collectible Pins are an extremely popular Fiesta souvenir. There's an official event pin designed every year, and you'll find a couple pin trading events on the Festival schedule.
Balloon teams also hand out trading cards. I think it's mostly kids that ask about and collect these cards, but I was able to nab a few from teams that were freely handing them out.
What to Wear
Albuquerque temperatures can vary quite a bit over the course of a day. Check the weather forecast, of course, but know that temps are generally pretty chilly in the morning and at night, and warmer around midday.
Most balloon events take place before / just after sunrise or after dark. So you'll be in the dark, and it will be cooler. Your best bet is to dress in warm, easy to remove layers. I'd recommend:
- Cozy Sweater or Sweatshirt - To layer over a lighter shirt and under your jacket.
- Long Sleeve Top - Wear it under your sweater. If you tend to run cold, pick something thermal or flannel for extra warmth.
- Jeans or Warm Pants - Something comfy!
- Sneakers or Other Comfortable Shoes - Choose shoes you don't mind getting dirty and will be comfortable standing in for hours.
- Mid-Weight Coat - Something with a warm lining is ideal.
- Hat and Gloves - A must for cold mornings and chilly evenings.
- Sunglasses - Protect your eyes!
- Sunscreen - I like to use Elta MD or La Roche-Posay sunscreen on my face and Sun Bum or Hawaiian Tropic on my body. Tip: If you're traveling by plane, you can buy a TSA-friendly 3-ounce Sun Bum face sunscreen (it can be used all over your body, not just your face).
Photography Equipment
If you're anything like me, you'll take hundreds of pictures at this awesome event! I'm a big believer that the best camera is the one you have on you, and iPhones take great photos. (And I'm sure many Android phones do, too.) In fact, I took most of these pics with my iPhone!
Make sure to bring a portable phone charger so your battery doesn't die. I have this one, and I love it! You can get multiple charges from it, and it works fast.
Of course, using a higher quality camera will almost certainly guarantee better photos, especially in the low-light conditions you'll find at the Fiesta. If you're ready to move beyond a camera phone, I have a couple suggestions:
- DSLR - If you're looking for an affordable DSLR, I can't recommend the Nikon D5300 enough ... it takes super sharp photos (even with the kit lenses), and it's easy to learn how to use. That said, while I love my DSLR, I mainly use it at home for food photos.
- Mirrorless - For travel, I prefer my Panasonic mirrorless camera. The body and lenses are more compact than my DSLR, yet it still takes DSLR-quality pics. I got mine a few years ago, and I love it!
- Tripod - You may also want a tripod for those low-light morning / evening shots ... or maybe not. When considering if you really need one, keep in mind that you'll be moving around a lot, need to act fast when taking photos, and that you'll have carry your tripod everywhere. I have this one, and it's super affordable and lightweight. A monopod may actually be better option though, since it's easier and faster to move around.
Photography Tips
Thousands of people attend the hot air balloon festival every day, so getting good pictures can be tricky. Here are some tips for taking the best photos:
- Get closer. Although it's nice to capture a range of photos, from the balloon-filled sky to crowd pics, you'll get the best images simply by moving closer to your subject and letting it fill the frame. If possible, walk closer, rather than zooming in ... especially with camera phones (you can always crop later).
- Stand still. For the sharpest photos in low-light conditions, stand as still as possible. When light is low, I try to stand with my feet firmly planted, shoulder distance apart, and with my arms firmly pressed against my body. Holding your breath helps, too.
- Capture the details. Sometimes the coolest photos come from noticing the little details, such as people's reactions, pilots lighting flames, or colorful balloon fabric illuminated by the morning (or evening) light.
- Move around. Balloons inflate and take off at different times. Move around the field to capture as many different balloons as possible. Try standing near the far end of the field (the side closest to Balloon Fiesta Parkway) for some of your photos. The mass of balloons will pass over you as they float off the field.
- Take a balloon ride. For an elevated perspective, consider taking a hot air balloon ride during the Fiesta with Rainbow Ryders.
- Know your camera. Whether you're using a camera phone or an expensive full-frame DSLR, this isn't the time to be learning how to use it. Balloons move around quickly, people will be walking in front of you, and often, you only have a few seconds to get that perfect picture. Get familiar with your camera ahead of time.
Where to Stay
When it comes to choosing a hotel, the most important thing is to book as early as possible. Hotels fill up fast and prices, which are already steep at this time of year, will only get higher closer to the event. Here are a few lodging options to consider:
Hotels
If you want to stay as close to the Balloon Fiesta Park as possible, consider staying at the Staybridge Suites (about 1.7 miles from the park) or SpringHill Suites (about 2.3 miles from the park).
Don't want to deal with constant traffic congestion? Or planning to explore other areas of Albuquerque during your visit? In that case, I'd recommend staying a little further from the park. Albuquerque has many hotels, including lots of budget-friendly chains ... again, book early to get the best rate.
For a more unique, non-chain experience, consider staying at the highly-rated Hotel Albuquerque in charming Old Town, the historic and unique Los Poblanos, or the luxurious Hotel Parq Central, which was built in a former hospital. You can even stay right on Route 66 at the restored El Vado Motel!
Use the map below to find other hotels in Albuquerque, and if you're not sure where to stay, check the reviews on TripAdvisor ... they're so helpful!
Of course, there are many options beyond hotels! Here are a few to consider:
Airbnb
For a longer stays (or if you want a more local experience), Airbnb is a great option. Albuquerque has tons of cool Airbnbs, ranging from single rooms to whole houses.
Glamping
Want to stay within walking distance of Balloon Fiesta Park? Consider glamping! These tents don't come cheap (they start at $1600 for three nights), but you'll have a warm, cozy bed with an amazing view of all the festivities.
Camping / RV
Staying in the adjacent RV park is another great option! Prices range from $60 to $300 per night, with the most expensive sites sitting on a bluff overlooking the launch field. There's also the Camp 505 campground, which costs $800 for three nights. These sites sell out fast, but there are many other campground and RV sites in the area, as well.
Tips for the Best Experience
Planning your first trip to the festival? Keep these tips in mind for the best experience possible:
- Book hotels and rentals cars as early as possible. Make your reservations as far in advance as possible. Hotels do sell out, plus the closer you get to the Festival, the higher the price will be. You'll should also make any restaurant reservations in advance.
- Arrive at Balloon Fiesta Park very early: Thousands of people attend the Albuquerque balloon festival every day, and traffic gets really, really backed up. On weekends, Fiesta organizers recommend that you arrive at the park by 4:30 AM for the morning session (or 4:00 PM for the evening session) ... that way, even if you have to wait in a long line to park, you'll still get in by the time events start (around 6:00 AM). During the week you can plan on arriving later, but still give yourself plenty of time. To avoid dealing with parking altogether, take Park & Ride whenever possible.
- Plan on attending the Fiesta for more than one day. Events are highly weather dependent, and may be cancelled due to wind, rain, or other conditions. You can increase your chances of seeing a launch by attending more than one day. Once you do get to the park, you can find out what's going on by listening to the daily pilot briefing, as well as by checking the Fiesta's Twitter and Facebook pages, or by signing up for text updates. You can also check out the flag pole located by the stage on Main Street: GREEN means all flying events are on schedule; YELLOW means there's a delay (or a decision hasn't been been made yet); and RED means flying events have been cancelled for that session.
- If a flying session does get cancelled, hold onto your ticket. You will be able to reuse it for any other flying session.
- Expect to do lots of walking. Balloon Fiesta Park is massive at over 360 acres, and the launch field itself is 60 acres. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, because you will be doing lots of standing and walking around.
- Follow the balloons. Part of the fun of the event is watching the crews work, from laying out the balloons to inflating them, and finally, seeing the balloons float off. Balloons launch at different times ... don't stay in one place, follow the action!
- Balloon Fiesta Park is handicap accessible. You'll find hard surface handicap parking near the entrance gates (parking is $20 cash). There are a limited number of scooters and wheelchairs available for rent near the Information Booth, but you should reserve them ahead of time through www.vistamobility.net, if possible. Shuttles also operate around the park. Main Street has a hard surface, and there are paved areas between the field, which is grassy. Just keep in mind the large size of the park (more than 360 acres) when planning your trip.
- Feel free to stop and chat with the balloon crews. As long as they're not busy, many crews enjoy talking with visitors. It's a great way to get a behind-the-scenes look at the Fiesta and to learn more about the teams.
- Avoid stepping on or getting too close to balloons. It's totally cool to walk out on the field, but you should avoid getting too close to the balloons. And it should go without saying, but do not touch anything! The last thing you'd want to do is damage a balloon, right? Make sure to listen to all directions from the crews and from the zebras (launch directors), as well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It costs $15 per session to get into the Fiesta, and each day is broken into morning and evening sessions. During the festival, there are nine morning sessions (one on each day of the event) and five evening sessions. Each ticket is good for one morning session OR one evening session. Upgraded tickets are also available.
Each year, the Fiesta welcomes over 500 balloons and 600 pilots from around the world.
During the Fiesta, rides from Balloon Fiesta Park are only available through Rainbow Ryders and cost a minimum of $475 per person, depending on the day. At other times of year, costs vary according to time of day, season, etc. You best bet is to contact the hot air balloon company directly.
The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta lasts for nine days each year and is held in early October. In 2025, the festival will run from Saturday, October 4 to Sunday, October 12.
Albuquerque can be cold in the morning and evening when the balloon sessions are held. You best bet is to wear warm, easily removable layers. See more tips in the What to Wear section above.
By far, the best place to watch the Fiesta is from Balloon Fiesta Park, but you'll be able to see the balloons from many different locations around Albuquerque. Where the best views are will depend on that day's weather conditions. If you're not familiar with the area, try asking locals what their favorite viewing spot is!
The zebras are the Fiesta's launch directors. They help balloon pilots safely launch their balloons. You can identify them by their black and white striped shirts. In addition to their distinctive shirts, they tend to dress creatively and are hard to miss!
The Albuquerque Box is a unique weather phenomenon that causes wind patterns to move in opposite directions at higher and lower elevations. Balloon pilots have no way to steer their balloons (they move with the wind), so the Albuquerque Box enables skilled pilots to land near where they took off, simply by changing elevation.
You're allowed to bring chairs into the park. Large bags and packages are allowed, but they will be searched. Pets are not allowed in the park, although ADA service animals are. Smoking is also not allowed.
Yes, you can bring food and drinks into the Fiesta, but glass bottles and alcohol are not allowed. Any bags you do bring in will be searched.
The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is the largest hot air balloon festival in the world. Each year, the event draws over 500 balloons, 600 pilots from around the world, and over 750,000 visitors.
Where to Get More Information
For more information, visit the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta website. Before your trip, you can also download the festival app to help you get around while you're there.
Other Things to Do in Albuquerque
Albuquerque is one of my favorite southwest cities, and it's a great jumping off point for exploring New Mexico. Make sure to check out this fascinating area during your trip. Just keep in mind that these attractions will be busier than usual during Fiesta time.
I'll be writing more about this fun city soon, but in the meantime, here are some of the best activities in Albuquerque (and beyond):
- Old Town - Visit the original town site of Albuquerque! This quaint area is filled with inviting shops, art galleries, and restaurants, as well as attractions like the historic San Felipe de Neri Church and a number of museums.
- Museums - Albuquerque has many excellent museums. My favorites include the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History, and the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.
- Route 66 - This historic road runs right through the heart of Albuquerque. As you drive the route through the city, you'll spot historic motels with unique neon signs, Route 66-themed restaurants, and other fun sights along the way.
- Sandia Mountains - The Sandias are located east of Albuquerque and provide countless recreational opportunities. Make sure to visit the peak by driving or taking the Sandia Peak Tramway ... the views of the Rio Grande Valley are breathtaking.
- Downtown ABQ - Albuquerque's vibrant downtown is definitely worth a visit. You'll spot tons of street art, historic theaters, wonderful bars and restaurants, and more during your visit.
- National Parks - New Mexico is full of amazing National Parks, a number of which are near Albuquerque. My favorites are Petroglyph National Monument, which is located right on the edge of Albuquerque, and the stunning Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, which is between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. If you're heading to the Fiesta from southern New Mexico, make sure to stop at one my favorites, White Sands National Park.
- Eat - Albuquerque has some amazing southwestern food, especially if you're a chile lover! Some of my favorite spots are Sister, Barelas Coffee House, Frontier, Duran Central Pharmacy's cafe, and the Range Cafe.
- Turquoise Trail - This National Scenic Byway is a historic road that connects Albuquerque to Santa Fe. As you make the 50 mile drive, you'll pass through a gorgeous landscape and number of quaint mining towns filled with museums, restaurants, and shops selling arts, crafts, and more.
- Santa Fe - At just an hour drive from Albuquerque, Santa Fe is a must visit! There is so much to do in beautiful Santa Fe, from historic sites to shopping, museums, arts, and more.
Thank you so much for reading my Balloon Festival guide. I hope you found it helpful. Let me know if you visit ... I'd LOVE to hear about your trip!
Just a heads up for folks who will be there on October 14th. There will be a total annular eclipse that day and Albuquerque is right in the path of the best viewing (weather permitting). Spectacular addition to the Fiesta, but remember DON'T LOOK AT THE SUN, even during an eclipse.
Thank you so much for sharing that tip, Kathy! How cool 🙂
We are going this year, can't wait!! Where is a good place along the river to watch the touch and go? And can you see it from a parking area? Do they do it every day? Also I have a rollator walker the one with the seat. Can that be taken in to the grassy area or do I need to stay on the cement?
Hi, Cathy! You are going to have such a fun trip. It's possible to watch the balloons from spots along the river (and area parking lots), but it's really hard to recommend a specific spot since it depends on what way the wind is blowing that day. Check out these two articles for alternative viewing spots: https://www.tlcplumbing.com/blog/best-places-view-balloons-balloon-fiesta-far/ AND https://alibi.com/feature/42652/The-Last-Frontier-of-Free-Viewing.html As long as the weather cooperates, balloons do go up every day. Inside the park, I'm not sure about taking your walker on the grass ... it's pretty firm, but I'd be worried that you would be unstable. There are lots… Read more »
It has long since been on my bucket list to make it to a balloon festival! Pinning this for sure. You have so much great information here.
I hope you get the chance to go ... it really is a special trip! Actually hoping to go back one day.