If you find yourself rolling around the Southwest this week, you might want to take in the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This is the “big one” for balloon aficionados.
The Fiesta is back bigger than ever for 2021 and runs for nine days, from Oct. 2 to Oct. 10. The number and types of special events scheduled during the event just keep growing. There are balloon “rodeos,” twilight glows, and Mass Ascensions that just have to be seen to be believed.
Transportation to and from the Balloon Park is easy. There’s a convenient Fiesta Express Park & Ride Service and a Bike Valet. Public parking sites are also available.
If you’re planning on going to the Balloon Fiesta, it’s best to purchase your tickets in advance to avoid the long lines at the gates.
General admission tickets for this year’s events are $15 per person, per session (over age 12). One session ticket includes admission to all morning activities or all evening activities. A general admission ticket is good for one session on any day.
You can purchase four-packs of general admission tickets, or single-session general admission tickets by clicking here. If you experience any problems when purchasing your tickets, you can call 855-725-1824 for help.
For more information on the overall event, the daily schedules and a list of entertainment options, click here.
Related:
Have you ever flown in a hot air balloon? (This is an earlier poll, but it’s still open if you care to participate. Plus, there are lots of interesting comments from readers.)
##RVT1020b
The Balloon Fiesta is a sight to behold. We live in Belen, about 35 miles south of Albuquerque and have attended the Fiesta several times over the years. My wife loves to go so we will every few years. But to me, the heavy traffic and long lines (at the Breakfast Burrito vendors and both when arriving and leaving), and very crowded Balloon Park, help me enjoy the Fiesta at home in my recliner with a hot cup of coffee watching it on TV.
I’m in Rio Rancho – and that is why my preferred way to experience the Fiesta is from the RV parks at the grounds. You gotta get you reservations WAY in advance as they sell out fast. But when you are at the park, you can sleep in to 7am – check for the TXT or radio to see if they got the Green Flag and then stroll out onto the field.
I’m heading down there tomorrow for 3 nights.
And from this morning:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EbIQrC99nSY
Just returned home from Fiesta this morning. Always a joy to see! Glad to see it back this year. We have used the Park and Ride system many times….it works,well for us.