For nine days in early October during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (AIBF) fills the brilliant New Mexico skies with an enchanting array of more than 500 hot air balloons of all shapes, sizes, and colors. The world’s largest hot-air balloon festival celebrates its 53rd year, at Balloon Fiesta Park, October 4 – 12, 2025.
Prepare to be enthralled by the sight of thousands of smiling, upturned faces, sharing in the spectacular beauty in the sky. Balloons aren’t the only draw. Between flights, check out events like chainsaw carving, vintage car shows, skydiving, fireworks, and the magical balloon glows.
Read more about the Balloon Fiesta on Albuquerque.com!
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Schedule
Every day is a blast at the AIBF, but the biggest and brightest events take place on the weekends, including the ever-popular Mass Ascensions, at 7 a.m., weather permitting. During mass ascensions, the balloons launch in two waves of organized ballet, offering one of the most incredible photo opportunities to be found anywhere on Earth. Learn why Albuquerque is the best location for hot air balloons.
Saturday & Sunday
Weekend AIBF days start early, so make sure to dress accordingly. The Dawn Patrol show launches at 6 a.m., and the Morning Glow at 6:30 a.m. Weekend festivities continue with AIBF Chainsaw Carving Exhibitions, at 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.; America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Inflation, at 2 p.m.; Team Fastrax Skydiving, at 5 and 7:30 p.m.; America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Launch, and the Twilight Twinkle Glow, at 6 p.m.; and the AfterGlow Fireworks Show at 8 p.m. And that’s just the first weekend!
Monday & Tuesday
Balloon launches continue Monday and Tuesday, though not on such a mass scale. You’ll also find Balloon Flying Competitions, more chainsaw carving demonstrations, skydiving, and more.
Wednesday
Wednesday, however, is another special day, with the Flight of the Nations Mass Ascension taking center stage at 7 a.m., followed by a Remote Control Balloons Exhibition, along with other activities.
Thursday
Thursday gives us the Special Shape Rodeo at 7 a.m., followed by more activities including a Special Shape Glowdeo at 6 p.m. and another AfterGlow Fireworks Show, at 8 p.m.
Friday
Friday, things start ramping up again, with another Special Shape Rodeo at 7 a.m., Competition Balloon Flying at 8 a.m., and a full day of activities, including a Special Shape Glowdeo at 6 p.m., and an AfterGlow Fireworks Show at 8 p.m.
Second Saturday
The final Saturday goes full tilt, with the addition of the always popular Music Fiesta to get the blood pumping along with the standard Saturday AIBF offerings.
Final Day: Second Sunday
Sunday brings the week to a close with the Farewell Mass Ascension at 7 a.m. and Chainsaw Carving, from 8 a.m. until noon.
Learn the best days to attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
Visit the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
There is something for everybody at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. If you haven’t done so yet, start making plans for the hottest ticket of the Fall season! For more information, visit the website.
Read more about the balloon fiesta on Albuquerque.com!
Get tips for taking your kids to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta here.
This article was posted by Jesse Williams
