With more than 600 balloons, special shapes, a fireworks show, a Balloon Discovery Center and more, there's something for everyone at one of the largest ballooning events in the world
With October comes the fragrance of roasting chiles and the magical show of hot-air balloons sailing silently through the crisp Albuquerque air. If you’re in Albuquerque, New Mexico between the 4th to 12th October, head to the Balloon Fiesta Park, where teams from all over the world participate in the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Each team comprises two members; the primary pilot and the co-pilot. This year, 548 teams and 280 pilots have registered from 22 countries including Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Jamaica, Lithuania, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Poland, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Ukraine, United Kingdom, and the United States. Some teams bring more than one balloon, which means guests have the opportunity to see more than 548 balloons during this nine-day event.
What began as a small gathering of 13 balloons in the parking lot of Coronado Center Mall, in 1972 is now believed to be one of the largest ballooning events in the world; an event that takes place at a permanent site, which is more than 350 acres with over 700 balloons and 1,000 pilots. The fiesta, believed to be one of the 'world's most photographed events' has not only grown in the number of balloons and guests, but also in its events. The audience can also witness the annual Balloon Glow, the Night Magic Glow, and the Special Shape Rodeo. You can also watch the fireworks show, gorge on delicious food, shop for merchandise, and visit the Balloon Discovery Center, where kids can learn the basics of ballooning in a fun environment.
Schedules at the Balloon Fiesta are divided into sessions–morning and evening. The nine morning sessions begin at 5:45 am and goes on till 12pm (time varies as per the day), while the five evening sessions begin at 1:30pm and goes on till 8pm (there are no evening sessions on some days).
You can also walk amongst differently shaped balloons–snails, owl, penguins, the old lady in the shoe, fire engine, pumpkin head, clown–and have a chat with the pilots. Each year there is a different theme, this year's being 'Spirit of the Winds'. Besides the balloons, there is a stage located in the centre of Main Street that schedules various bands and children's acts.
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