Frequently Asked Questions
Commonly asked questions in planning your trip to the Balloon Fiesta.
Don't see an answer to your question here? Click here and fill out the form. We will be in touch with you as soon as possible with an answer!
What is the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta?
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a world-renowned attraction and destination for kids of all ages. For more than four decades, the first week in October brings the smell of roasting chiles and the beautiful, magical moving picture show of hot air balloons sailing silently through the crisp fall air.
Guests from all over the world come to Albuquerque to celebrate ballooning. Literally hundreds of balloons will be taking flight from the Balloon Fiesta Park this year October 1-9, 2016.
From its modest beginnings in 1972 with 13 balloons launching from a shopping mall parking lot, the Balloon Fiesta has grown to multiple events launching year-round at the custom-designed, 365-acre Balloon Fiesta Park. Our signature event remains Balloon Fiesta—which, with almost 600 balloons, is the largest ballooning event on earth, the most photographed event on earth, and the largest annual international event held in the United States.
Imagine 54 football fields, all put together. That's the size of Balloon Fiesta Park's 78-acre launch field! And at this Park's "playing field," there are no losing teams and no viewing stands. Guests walk the field and are part of the action.
Hundreds of thousands of smiling, upturned faces, awestruck by the spectacular beauty of hot air balloons filling the big blue New Mexico sky. What you can't hear until you walk our field at nightfall is the thrilling roar of hundreds of burners simultaneously igniting, turning the Park into a huge lighted Christmas tree of colorful balloons. What you can't feel until you join us is the massive joy everywhere around you.
Where does Balloon Fiesta take place?
Balloon Fiesta takes place at Balloon Fiesta Park, which is located north of Alameda Boulevard, one mile west of I-25.
When should I arrive at Balloon Fiesta Park?
Since crowds for some of our events are in excess of 100,000 people, arriving sooner is better. For weekend events, plan to arrive at the park by 4:00-4:30am. During evening events, try to be at the park by 4pm. Gates open at 4:30am and 3:30pm.
Where do we watch the balloons?
Because of our 44-year safety record, we are one of the only balloon (aviation) events where you are actually able to walk among the balloons and talk to the pilots. We are a hands-on event, but please be courteous to hot air balloons and do not step on or over any.
What is a session?
A session is all the activities that go on during a certain time frame. Balloon Fiesta has morning sessions and evening sessions. An example would be when you visit the park to see the Dawn Patrol and Mass Ascension, you would be coming to a morning session.
Are pets allowed at Balloon Fiesta Park?
No, however service animals are allowed.
Is smoking allowed at Balloon Fiesta Park?
There is absolutely no smoking allowed inside Balloon Fiesta Park.A lit cigarette could possibly ignite a balloon's fuel tank and an ash can melt the balloon envelope. Also, pockets of propane can settle in areas around the field. This odorless gas can easily ignite.
Where do we park?
We have general parking lots on the north and south ends of the park, it is $15 for each session you are at the park. Each parking lot is color-coded and the gates are numbered, so please remember the color and number of the gate through which you entered the field.
Is there an alternative to driving to Balloon Fiesta Park yourself?
Yes, we offer Park & Ride locations throughout Albuquerque. Please go to our website at www.balloonfiesta/guest-guide/park-ride for times and up to date locations. Tickets should be available in June.
Do you offer shuttles from hotels within Albuquerque?
No. You will need to contact your individual hotel to see if they are offering a shuttle to Balloon Fiesta Park.
Are large packages and backpacks allowed at the park?
Yes, but they are subject to inspection upon entering the Park.
Can we bring food and drinks into the park?
Yes, but you cannot bring glass or alcohol and your bags or coolers are subject to search.
What types of entertainment happen at the park?
Besides the balloons, there is a stage located in the center of Main Street that schedules various bands and children's acts. We also have roving entertainment and interactive education at the Balloon Discovery Center.
Who organizes the Balloon Fiesta?
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, Inc., organizes the Balloon Fiesta each year. It is non-profit organization with 13 full-time staff members.
Is the Park handicap accessible?
Yes. Hard-surface handicap parking near the entrance gates is available for the regular parking fee ($15.0