There’s no doubt we’ll miss the thrill of being on the field for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®️, which has been postponed until 2021. Luckily, there’s a new way to celebrate with the upcoming Balloon Fiesta Live!®️, Siesta Edition. This virtual event will feature spectacular videos of balloon launches and glows from previous years, accompanied by live commentary. There will even be an online merchant shop, so grab your collector’s pin and favorite Balloon Fiesta hat, because we’re about to plan the viewing party of a lifetime!
Prepare Your Livestream Screen
Looking to watch those early morning launches from the comfort of your couch or backyard? Then your phone or laptop will do the trick, but to level up your viewing we recommend connecting your device to your TV. All you’ll need is an HDMI cord! For the ultimate viewing experience, hang a white sheet to a wall and project the event on the sheet. Depending on where you live, you may want to opt for viewing indoors, but if you really want to experience the moment, consider bundling up and watching from your backyard.
Create the Ambiance
Whether you prefer the early morning Mass Ascension or the evening Glowdeo®, ambiance is key. Print out some of your favorite pictures from past fiestas and hang them from your ceiling or a tree. If you have kiddos, or are feeling crafty, make your own hot air balloon cutouts from crafting paper and other items you have around the house. You can even shop the official merchandise store for things like posters, puzzles, windchimes and more! Did we mention that this year’s “Siesta Edition” merch is limited edition? The fun doesn’t stop there, because there are so many ways to Experience the Hot Air Ballooning Capital of the World.
Order Your Goodies
Near and far, there is no better time to pay your favorite local businesses and vendors a visit. If you're a local, grab your favorite early morning breakfast burrito and coffee, or your favorite green chile cheeseburger or platter of evening nachos. See a list of takeout and delivery options here. If you live in another city or state, try creating an authentic New Mexican recipe, or in #TrueABQ fashion, you can check out Yelp’s 2020 Taste of Balloon Fiesta. Concessionaires mentioned on the list will be holding in-person or online specials, where customers and Balloon Fiesta fans can purchase their iconic products.
Get Ready for Dawn Patrol
The time has finally arrived. You’ve got your viewing area set up, you have your favorite goodies in hand and you're ready to see those balloons lift off. We know nothing will replace the feeling of being on the ground at Balloon Fiesta Park and experiencing the wonder of hundreds of hot air balloons taking flight and filling the Albuquerque sky, but it will help satisfy the spirit until we are able to be together again for the Fiesta in 2021.
