Visit Albuquerque prohibits users from downloading images from our website.

Please use our media library for downloadable images and usage rights.

ALBUQUERQUE INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FIESTA® Powered by ExxonMobil

OCTOBER 7-15, 2023

Carry Me Away » 

Join us in celebrating the 51st Anniversary of Balloon Fiesta in 2023!

For nine days in October, the Albuquerque skies are colorfully painted as more than 500 balloons lift off from Balloon Fiesta Park. Plan now to attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® Powered by ExxonMobil and be part of the world’s largest hot-air balloon festival. Walk among the moving picture show of hot air balloons lifting gently through the crisp, fall air. It'll feel like you're in a dream.

For the most up-to-date information on scheduling, please visit BalloonFiesta.com

To get insider tips, learn more about Balloon Fiesta and find the best places to eat and things to do during your stay, check out Your Guide to Visiting Albuquerque for Balloon Fiesta. 

Take a Virtual Tour

Virtual Tour


Start Planning Your Balloon Fiesta Trip 

Where is Balloon Fiesta?

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® takes place annually at Balloon Fiesta Park in the northern part of the city. Balloon Fiesta Park is located at 4401 Alameda Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113. Learn more about the Balloon Fiesta Park area of Albuquerque here

Where do I buy tickets for Balloon Fiesta?

Tickets to both morning and evening events are available at the event, but to plan ahead, you can also order tickets ahead of time via the Balloon Fiesta website, or over the phone. Find advanced ticket options and prices here.

What is the typical Balloon Fiesta schedule?

Each Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday during the nine day-long event begin with Dawn Patrol and a breathtaking mass ascension, when all balloons launch from Balloon Fiesta Park in two waves, speckling the sky above. Balloons begin to launch at about 7:00 a.m. each day. In addition to mass ascension mornings, other days include launches from the park and special shape rodeos, when a spectacular variety of special shape balloons ascend from the grassy field. Evening events vary throughout the week, but many nights feature a Balloon Glow, when the hundreds of balloons on the field stay grounded, and simultaneously light up the night sky. Other events, concerts and activities take place throughout the week. See BalloonFiesta.com for a more detailed schedule. 

What do I need to bring to Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque?

A short list of items you may want to bring with you to Balloon Fiesta Park for any of the week’s events include a camera, a blanket or lawn chair to sit on and a hat or sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright sun. You’ll want to be sure to dress in layers and be prepared for the weather to change quickly. You are permitted to bring snacks and water into the park, but there are plenty of food vendors throughout the venue providing many options for breakfast, coffee, snacks, dinner and sweets. Check out our Ultimate Guide to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta for more information. 

For a more detailed list of frequently asked questions about Balloon Fiesta and items you should bring with you, visit BalloonFiesta.com

How do I get to Balloon Fiesta?

Albuquerque offers a variety of options for getting to Balloon Fiesta Park for Balloon Fiesta events including Park & Ride services, public transportation options, specialty tours and rideshare services. Find more information on these services and other transportation options here

Balloon Fiesta Park has its own general parking lots on the north and south ends of the park. It is $20 to park for each session you are at the park. For more details on parking your car at Balloon Fiesta Park, see BalloonFiesta.com’s FAQ page

What else can I do in Albuquerque?

Albuquerque offers an outdoor oasis, culturally diverse experiences, family-friendly adventures and a culinary scene for any type of foodie. The city also offers a wide array of other events and entertainment. Visit our ABQ365 Events Calendar to find more events during Balloon Fiesta week. 

Have more questions about Balloon Fiesta?

Check out BalloonFiesta.com for more answers to frequently asked questions

Download the free Balloon Fiesta mobile app!

Navigating the Balloon Fiesta is easy with this new, innovative and intuitive app featuring a parked car marker, the ability to select favorite balloons and pilots, live weather alerts, bathroom locator and even food and vendor information! Search for the “ABQ Int Balloon Fiesta” app in the App Store or Google Play. 

Download the App

 

Start building your perfect trip to Albuquerque now

ORDER YOUR FREE GUIDE TO ALBUQUERQUE

Whether it's your first visit to Albuquerque or you're a frequent visitor, our beautiful Visitors Guide is the best resource for all you need to know about events, attractions, dining and shopping.

Watch a Typical Balloon Fiesta Day

Balloon Fiesta events take place at varying points of the day and evening, offering a magical experience for all. The above video shows a sample of Balloon Fiesta activities and related facts.