Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta 2025: A Sky Full of Color

Every October, the skies over Albuquerque, New Mexico, fill with hundreds of hot air balloons. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the biggest balloon festival in the world. It draws pilots, photographers, and visitors from across the globe.

When and Where

• Dates for 2025: October 4 – October 12
• Location: Balloon Fiesta Park, Albuquerque, New Mexico
• The event takes place every year in early October, when cool mornings and calm winds create perfect flying conditions.

What to Expect

1. Mass Ascension

• Over 500 balloons launch at sunrise on the opening weekend.
• Crews coordinate to send wave after wave into the sky, filling it with color.

2. Special Shape Rodeo

• Balloons shaped like animals, characters, and objects.
• Favorites include cows, penguins, and cartoon figures.

3. Balloon Glows

• In the evenings, balloons stay tethered and light up against the night sky.
• Visitors can walk among them for close-up views.

4. Competitions

• Pilots test their skills in target drops and distance challenges.

5. Entertainment and Food

• Live music, local vendors, and New Mexican food like green chile stew and breakfast burritos.

Why It’s Special

• Started in 1972 with only 13 balloons, the fiesta has grown into a nine-day event with more than 800,000 visitors.
• Albuquerque’s geography — wide open space, high desert, and the “Albuquerque Box” wind pattern — makes it one of the best ballooning locations in the world.
• It’s a major tourist event, boosting the local economy and showcasing New Mexico culture.

Tips for Visitors

• Arrive early: Gates open around 4:30 a.m. for morning launches.
• Dress in layers: Cold mornings can turn into warm afternoons.
• Bring a camera: The scenery is unmatched.
• Buy tickets in advance: Popular sessions sell out quickly.
• Use park-and-ride shuttles: Traffic and parking fill up fast.

Beyond the Balloons

While in Albuquerque, you can also:

• Visit the Sandia Peak Tramway for panoramic views.
• Explore Old Town Albuquerque for history and culture.
• Taste authentic New Mexican cuisine featuring red and green chile.

A Bucket-List Event

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is more than a festival. It’s a celebration of flight, community, and culture. Whether you’re watching hundreds of balloons lift into the sunrise or standing under a glowing balloon at night, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.