Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta 2019

With more than 500 hot air balloons filling up the clear skies of New Mexico, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is one of the largest hot air balloon festivals in the world.

The Festival is celebrated every year in early October. Albuquerque, a city in the US State of New Mexico, plays host to the 9-day event. From just 13 balloons in the year 1972, the event has now become a major celebration. Covering a massive space of more than 360 acres, Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta features a variety of events such as hot air balloon race, live music concerts, competitions, and games for kids of all age groups. Scroll down further and get to know everything related to 2019 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta.

When will Albuquerque Balloon Festival 2019 start?

All the events will take place at Albuquerque city park starting from Saturday 5 Oct to Sunday 13 Oct. The very first event of Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta 2019 will start as early as 6:00 am and the last one will start at 8:00 pm. Remember the dates and get ready for a lifetime experience.

What events will take place at 2019 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta?

The following type of events will be taking place in 2019 Albuquerque Balloon Festival.

  • Albuquerque Aloft: This event has grown tremendously since 2005. Balloonists at selected schools either choose to fly or may remain inflated, bringing the joy of ballooning to children directly in their school playgrounds.

  Venue: Different schools of Albuquerque.

Date & Time:  5-13 Oct ; 6:45-7:30 a.m.

  • Dawn Patrol: As the name suggests, this event starts before the first appearance of light in the sky. About a dozen of balloons perform the dawn patrol show, a choreographed inflation and launch, set according to music.

Venue: Albuquerque Park

Date & Time:  5-13 Oct ; 5:45:-7:00 a.m.

  • Mass Ascension: The most breathtaking display of colour, Mass Ascension is the launch of all participating balloons together. The view is so beautifully amazing that you would not be able to take your eyes off even for a single second.

Venue: Albuquerque Park

Date & Time:  5-13 Oct ; 7:00 a.m.

  • Competition: Be a part of numerous competition tasks at Albuquerque Balloon Festival 2019 where thrill meets adventure. The competition comprises of hot air balloon related tasks along with a photo contest.

Venue: Albuquerque Park

Date & Time:  5-13 Oct ; Daylong.

  • Special Shape Rodeo: Started in 1989, the special shape rodeo balloon have now become the most popular event at Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Hundreds of special shaped balloons are set to fly off.

Venue: Albuquerque Park

Date & Time:  10-11 Oct ; Afternoon.

  • Balloon Glows: Popular with other names like Afterglow, Twilight Twinkle Glow, Night Magic Glow, this event is all about the glowing balloons in night sky. As soon as balloons fire up their burners, they light up. Although only for a moment, this is simply the most wondrous view in all Balloon Fiesta.

Venue: Albuquerque Park

Date & Time:  5-13 Oct ; 8:00 p.m.

Do you need tickets for Albuquerque Balloon Festival?

Yes, a ticket is needed if you wish to be a part of millions at Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta 2019. The range varies for different types of tickets that include-                        

  • General Admission                        
  • Park & Ride                        
  • Gondola Club                        
  • Chasers’ Club                        
  • Music Fiesta                        
  • Glamping
  • Group Tours
  • Concierge Program
  • Balloon Rides

To know the exact price of tickets or to make a booking, you can visit Balloon Fiesta Gift Shop situated at 4401 Alameda Blvd. NE. or you can make your bookings online as well.

How to get to Balloon Fiesta?

You can use the shuttle service available from different locations of Albuquerque city. However, the most convenient and easy option is to rent a car at Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) and reach the balloon fiesta. This will not only give you the freedom to decide your own schedule, but will also save your time that you might otherwise just waste by being in que, waiting for shuttle. Also, you can travel around the city exploring other interesting things it has to offer.

Where can I park my car at the Balloon Fiesta?

You can park your private vehicle or rental car at the general parking lots located on the park’s northern and southern ends. The car parking rate is $15 per car for one session. Also, note that you cannot reserve a car parking space online!

What can you bring into the Albuquerque Balloon Festival?

You can carry everything and anything that’s legal and you might feel is necessary. There’s no special restriction on what you can carry to the Balloon fiesta. However, do not forget to carry the basic essential things like

  • A Camera
  • Cash
  • Backpack
  • Wear Layers
  • Sunglasses
  • Blanket
  • Snacks and Water Bottle
  • Stroller/Carrier (for little ones)

Which are the airports near Albuquerque, NM?

Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), located just 3 miles away from Downtown Albuquerque, is the nearest airport to Albuquerque, NM. You can also fly to El Paso International Airport (ELP), TX, pick up a rental car, and reach Albuquerque in about 4 hours. El Paso Airport is nearly 273 miles away from Albuquerque.

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