ALBUQUERQUE, NM – To the delight and surprise of guests, more than 700 hot air balloons will appear "Out of the Blue" and grace the early morning October skies in celebration of the 35th Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (http://www.itsatrip.org/visitors/06_3balloon) from October 6 -15, 2006.
 
New Mexico Fall Colors
October in New Mexico is a delight to all the senses.  Autumn leaves are turning color, the smell of roasted green chile is wafting in the air, and hundreds of hot air balloons fill the early morning sky over Albuquerque for 10 days.  Hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world have been traveling to Albuquerque for 35 years to celebrate earth and sky at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® (http://www.itsatrip.org/visitors/06_3balloon).
 
This year's theme, "Out of the Blue," captures the magic of the unexpected beauty of balloons filling the sky as they launch from the park and float quietly against the backdrop of the Sandia Mountains.  The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta ®, now the largest hot-air balloon gathering in the world, began with 13 balloons launching from a shopping center parking lot in 1972.  The original small gathering generated enthusiasm and provided the momentum to create the premier ballooning event that it has become today and one of the world’s most photographed events.
 
Albuquerque Vacation Packages Available
Out of town guests can experience Albuquerque’s signature event by booking a vacation package to the event including hotel, transportation and even a balloon ride! http://www.nmtravel.com/Visit AlbuquerqueRes/packages.htm
The 2006 International Balloon Fiesta (http://www.itsatrip.org/visitors/06_3balloon) promises to provide adventure and excitement for everyone.  More than 700 balloons will launch from 72 grass-covered acres at Balloon Fiesta Park where guests interact with pilots and their crews as they inflate and fly their balloons from the field.  They will experience mass ascensions, balloon glows, the Wells Fargo Special Shape Rodeo, fireworks, and the 11th Annual America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race. 
 
Aside from the exciting sites and sounds of the Fiesta, venues throughout the city offer an array of activities from fine arts & crafts shows and festivals to special cultural entertainment at museums. Visit www.itsatrip.org for a complete list of Albuquerque events.
 
We invite you to visit the 2006 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and be part of an amazing "Out of the Blue" experience.  You'll be delighted!