For nine days in early October during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the brilliant New Mexico skies are filled with an enchanting array of more than 500 balloons of all shapes, sizes, and colors. Whether you’re a balloon enthusiast, or just like to watch as hundreds of balloons fill the skies, you’ll be enthralled by the sight of thousands of smiling, upturned faces, sharing in the spectacular beauty. But balloons aren’t the only draw. Between flights, check out events like chainsaw carving, vintage car shows, skydiving, fireworks, and the magical balloon glows. The world’s largest hot-air balloon festival celebrates its 52nd year, at Balloon Fiesta Park, October 5 – 13, 2024.
Read more about the Balloon Fiesta on Albuquerque.com!
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Schedule 
The weekends are when most of the main events take place, including the ever-popular Mass Ascensions, at 7 a.m. During these mass ascensions, the balloons launch in two waves of organized ballet, offering one of the most incredible photo opportunities to be found anywhere.
Saturday & Sunday
But the days begin early, with a Dawn Patrol show at 6 a.m., and the Krispy Kreme Morning Glow at 6:30 a.m. They continue with AIBF Chainsaw Carving Exhibitions, at 8 and 3 a.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 day one!
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. Tickets for this event run from $15 General Admission, through reserved seating sections, to the ABQ Dance Box, at $75. Tickets can be purchased on the website, or by calling 505-227-8737 if you can’t buy tickets online.
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.
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! Tickets are $15 general admission, 12 and under free. 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
