Don’t Miss the Biggest Hot Air Balloon Festival in New Mexico This Year, Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

There is one event that New Mexico is famous for, and that will take your breath away. In fact, it has previously been named as one of the best fall festivals in the U.S. Of course, we are talking about the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This must-visit event in Albuquerque(ABQ) features nine days filled with hundreds of hot air balloons soaring through the sky, family-friendly activities, and evening glows that will create the most picture-perfect settings. Mark your calendars because you don't want to miss it.

What To Expect at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is one of the most highly anticipated events in New Mexico, and nearly one million visitors flock to the Land of Enchantment to witness it. This year, this massive hot air balloon festival will take place from Saturday, Oct. 3 to Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta dates back to 1972, when just 13 hot air balloons gathered in the Coronado Center Mall parking lot in ABQ. Today, this event is now nine days long, features up to 600 hot air balloons, and brings in 700 pilots. The festival is held at Balloon Fiesta Park, a 360-acre park that hosts vendors, balloons, activities, and so much more.

There are multiple activities and events for you to enjoy each day during the festival. These events start early in the morning and may include dawn patrol, morning glows, and mass balloon ascension. During the day, you will not want to miss events like competitive balloon flying, chainsaw carving, and remote-controlled balloons. We recommend you visit the balloon festival's official website to view each day's schedule so you can plan your visit accordingly. Also, plan to start your day early. Some events can draw more than 80,000 individuals.

Tips for Planning Your Balloon Fiesta Visit

One of our favorite events is the "Special Shape Rodeo." During this popular event, hot air balloons featuring unique shapes and fun characters soar in the sky. These balloons bring new sights and colors to the sky above ABQ—this is one day of the festival that children in particular will love. This unique event first began in 1989 and was such a big success that it drew massive crowds and even created major traffic jams in the city. Throughout the years, it has grown, and in 1996, more than 100 special-shaped balloons soared in the sky.

While the hot air balloons are an incredible sight, they aren't the only form of entertainment at this annual NM festival. Multiple locations around ABQ offer dances, live music, concessions, and so much more. On select nights, there are also incredible events like evening glows and beautiful fireworks. From the early morning hours until late at night, there is something to keep you busy.

Before you arrive at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, we recommend you read the official event guide to learn more about the festival itself, specific activities, security, parking, etc. Remember that the weather plays a big role in many events at the festival, and the balloons will not fly in unsafe conditions.

Additionally, to visit Balloon Fiesta Park during this event, general admission tickets are required for each session. This ticket gives you entry to most of the amenities the festival offers, including the Balloon Discovery Center, Artisan tent, vendors, entertainment, and more. Park and Ride tickets are also available, which provide round-trip transportation to and from the park, allowing you to avoid parking headaches and the heavy traffic in the area. Also, keep in mind that some specific activities require additional fees. You can learn more about ticket options on the ABQ International Balloon Fiesta website.

Why the Balloon Fiesta Is a Bucket-List Event

Colors, shapes, excitement, and pure joy are just the beginning of things you'll see at this New Mexico hot air balloon festival. There is something absolutely magical about watching the sky fill up with shapes and colors—it's breathtaking. Just make sure you plan ahead. It'll make your entire experience that much better.

Have you planned your visit? You don't want to miss it. And if you are looking for even more things to do in ABQ, check out this 12-hour itinerary with the best sights, bites, and culture in New Mexico’s vibrant high desert city. And, of course, for even more fun things to do in the fall in New Mexico, check out our ultimate autumn bucket list.