"Red or Green?"

Every state has an official bird and flower, but only New Mexico also has an official state question: “Red or Green?” It’s the decision diners make when choosing red or green chile to top authentic New Mexican dishes. For those who want both, “Christmas” is the answer.

“Red or Green?” is also the name of Visit Albuquerque’s hot air balloon, which made its debut at the 2022 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®. With its split design, the balloon celebrates the star ingredient of our state’s distinctive cuisine. It also brings together two beloved Albuquerque treasures – chile and ballooning.

The Visit Albuquerque balloon is sponsored and operated by Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Ride Co. The balloon flies year-round in New Mexico, Arizona and Colorado to promote travel to Albuquerque.