Q: How popular is the balloon fiesta?
A: The Balloon Fiesta is Albuquerque’s largest visitor event drawing nearly 800,000 spectators over the nine days of the event. Albuquerque is known throughout the world for the Balloon Fiesta and is also known as the Hot Air Balloon Capital of the World.

Few other cities or states have such a signature event. Some others that you may be familiar with are:
  • Mardi Gras in New Orleans
  • New Years Eve Celebration at Times Square in New York City
  • Running of the Bulls in Pamplona Spain
  • Kentucky Derby at the Churchill Downs in Louisville, KY
  • Oktober Fest in Germany
Also, the Balloon Fiesta has received many accolades and recognitions over the years, and it was just named one of the Top 10 Fall Family Festivals by Road Trip for Families.

I hope this gives you a good idea of the overwhelming popularity of the Balloon Fiesta!
Q: Which is the balloon company (or companies) that are several miles away that ascend at the same time as the mass ascension of the balloon fiesta, in order to take some photographs?
A:
There are several local pilots who fly from away from the field during Fiesta, because they are not authorized to fly in fiesta events. They are not allowed to fly in the airspace set aside by the FAA for Fiesta.
 
There is no Fiesta sanctioned group that takes photos, and Fiesta isn't aware of anyone who does that. On many days the Fiesta balloons takeoff from the field and fly away, and photos from those balloons back at the crowd of balloons following them are dramatic.
 
There is an official balloon ride company, Rainbow Ryders, and they are the only ones allowed to sell rides etc. at the Fiesta. I'd suggest you contact them.
 
I hope you'll come see the show!
Q: Coming to the festival from northern Pa. Any specifics on what to pack. We are planning on a balloon ride.
A: All my friends and I dress in layers. It's sort of cold in the morning and warm by noon usually, so, longjohns, then jeans, sweatshirt, then ski jacket and warm gloves. You just keep shedding as it warms up. There aren't many coat and tie required restaurants in Albuquerque, but slacks and sport coat are a good idea if you're going out on the town. Wear solid walking, hiking shoes on the balloon field and especially if chasing balloons, or helping pack them up after your ride. (One usually doesn't land on grass out here, but sandy high desert) and there's lots of souvenir clothing for sale at the field. You'll want to do some sightseeing while here also, and at this altitude you'll want to have a water bottle along to stay hydrated.
 
You'll have a blast! Glad you'll be joining us.
Q: We will be flying in to ABQ late in the evening and taking a taxi to stay with friends who are in a Winnegago staying on the balloon fesitval grounds. Will the taxi be able to find their location? or will it have to drop us off at the entrance? We will need to take a taxi from the festival grounds campground to the airport at the end of the festival (Sunday). Will this take a long time? do we need to go very early in order to not be stuck in traffic?
A: After talking to fiesta staff, they suggested that it would be smartest and easiest if your hosts meet you
at the RV parking lot entrance or at the balloon fiesta office parking lot across the street on Alameda and the hosts could then take you directly to the RV. Also, if you are arriving on a nite with ballooning events at the field, the traffic will be difficult, until fairly late..10p.

On the other hand, crowds are smaller on the last day, and the traffic shouldn't be too big of a problem leaving the area..I don't know about the availability of taxis in the area of the balloon field and RV parking areas. You probably should check with the taxi company in advance. And lots of people will be leaving town that day, so delays at the airport might be of greater concern. I know you'll have fun, and staying in an RV at the field is a great way to see the Fiesta. We look forward to your visit.
 
Tom Rutherford, ACVB Balloon Expert
Q: Do the ballons take off and come back and land in the same place?
A:
They can take off and land in the same place, but it doesn't happen very often. It is quite an unusual day in most of the world to have winds blowing in almost opposite directions, and balloons can't be steered. They become part of the wind and move in the direction its moving. Albuquerque is unique in this regard, due to the Albuquerque Box.
 
On the eastern edge of Albuquerque are the Sandia Mountains, rising 6,000 feet above the city, which itself is located along the Rio Grande River valley. So, in the morning the cold air slips down the mountain, into the valley and, being cold, flows down stream, to the south. When the sun comes up, because the mountain is in its way, it heats the air at about 800 feet above the ground first. That air, being warmer, travels north. So the balloonist can often take off, float to the south, then rise to about 800 feet and begin to move to the north. And sometimes they can do that for about an hour or so, circling above the balloon park. And so the balloon can take off and land at almost the same place. Its makes the Balloon Fiesta the most colorful, exciting balloon event in the world!
 
You can learn more at www.balloonfiesta.com.

Come see us!
Q: We will be at the Fiesta for the first Sunday. Would you please tell me where you think would be the best place to take photographs of the Sunday morning mass ascension? Thanks very much, Harry
A:
One of the unique things about the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is that there are no ropes blocking spectators from the field. Visitors can get right on the field, providing them with the opportunity to see the balloons up close and personal and talk to the pilots.
 
I promise you that no matter where you are on the field, you will have an amazing photo opportunity. 
Q: (1)Is there a place or school where you can learn how to pilot Balloon affectively? (2)Can you decide which direction to go?
A: 1) There a several good pilot training facilities in Albuquerque. I recommend contacting Rainbow Ryders for some good suggestions.
2) You are at the mercy of the direction of the wind to determine where you go.  
Q: Do the special shape balloons only fly on Thursday and Friday?
A: Yes, the special shapes only fly on Thursday and Friday morning, however you can also catch them in action during the Special Shapes Glowdeo (they don't fly during the glows, but it is an excellent opportunity to see the special shapes upclose) on Thursday and Friday evening as well. Here is a link to the full Balloon Fiesta event schedule: www.BalloonFiesta.com
Q: Do the balloons ascend every day during the festival (Oct.2-11) or just on some days? Thank you, Dede
A: Ballooning is highly dependent on weather, but provided the weather cooperates every morning, the balloons will ascend each day.  Some mornings feature Mass Ascensions in which all of the 600+ balloons ascend in to the sky at once, other days feature flying competitions during which only some of the balloons ascend and compete, and other days feature Special Shape Ascensions during which only the special shapes fly. Here is a link to the full schedule of events: www.BalloonFiesta.com 
Q: Is there handicapped rv parking? Are the shuttles able to hancdle a wheel chair?
A:
Yes to both. You'll need to contact Balloon Fiesta directly to discuss specifics and request the handicap reservations. You can contact Balloon Fiesta by calling 1-888-422-7277 toll free or by visiting www.balloonfiesta.com
Q: I am planning on camping while attending Balloon Fiesta for the first time. Is there onsite camping for spectators? If so do I need and how do I make reservations?
A:
Yes there's camping onsite. The vast majority of the camping at Balloon Fiesta is done in RVs, but there are also a significant number of tents on site too. Balloon Fiesta rents camping spaces for RVs, so each space is 10' wide by 40' long, plus a space for a car. They also have: standard spaces that are "dry camp" (no water or electricity); premium spaces that have water and electricity; VIP, (dry camping but closer to the Launch Field and including up to four admissions for each session during their stay); and President's Compound (water and electric, including a "pump out" for every three days they stay), including admissions and a shuttle to Main Street and the Launch Field. There's also a free shuttle from the Standard and Premium spaces to a corner of the Launch Field and back. Balloon Fiesta has portable restroom facilities at each of the camping areas but do not have showers. You can make reservations by calling the office at 505-821-1000 or 888-422-7277 or you can make a reservation online at www.balloonfiesta.com.
Q: luv the website,can you recommend a ballon ride not within the balloon fest the price is alittle high like 150 or 175? thanks
A: There are tons of balloon companies that fly during Fiesta. Your best bet is to shop around a bit. I'd start by browsing this list: www.itsatrip.org/activities/hot-air-ballooning and then calling a few companies to investigate prices. Unfortunately, because Balloon Fiesta is peak season, rates are generally higher then. If you come during any other time, check out these coupons, they offer as much as 20% off the regular fare.  
Q: I am looking for several shops that carry hot air balloon items. Can you help??
A: I think the best place to start is at www.BalloonFiestaStuff.com - they have tons of fantastic balloon-related items for sale. 
Q: This will be my first experience at a balloon festival and I was wondering if they offer balloon rides at any point during the Alburquerque Int. Balloon Fiesta.
A: Rainbow Ryders is the official balloon ride company of Balloon Fiesta and they operate daily at the Fiesta. They are the only company that provides commercial flights from the field, but there are several around the city that will be glad to take you from off field. As you can imagine, it is a very popular activity during Fiesta, so be sure and make reservations early. For a great list of balloon companies around Albuquerque, click here.
Q: What would be the best 3 days to attend?
A: There are two schools of thought:
 
1. Go early and in case of bad weather you can extend. On opening day you'll see the mass ascension in the a.m., then the gas balloon liftoff ,
small glow and fireworks that nite. on sunday another mass ascension in the morning and huge balloon glow and fireworks that night, Monday morning, smaller crowds for good shopping.

2. Come for Thursday morning special shapes and regular balloons mass ascensions  and afternoon shapes glow and fireworks, more shapes on friday morning and most exciting key grab competition where all hundreds of balloons fly across the field and try to grab prizes from the top of 25 foot tall poles in the field. Shapes glow that night with fireworks. Mass Ascension Saturday morning, smaller glow and fireworks that night.

3. Quit school or your job and come out for both weekends and the week in between, and have plenty of time to see the sights around New Mexico at harvest time plus the world's largest gathering of hot air balloons.

You'll have fun and be amazed no matter when you come. See you at Fiesta!
Q: When is the 2010 Balloon Fiesta? and exactly where? Want info on motels, etc. Also info on room rates, if possible, at the the indian casino in Albuquerque, or how to find info on casino's rates during Fiesta.
A:
The 2010 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is October 2-11. The Balloon Fiesta takes place at Balloon Fiesta Park in Northern Albuquerque at 4401 Alameda Boulevard Northeast, Albuquerque, NM 87113.  There are several options for accommodations available in Albuquerque - too many to list here. Check out this lodging list for a better idea of what is available and where. If you are interested in staying near the park, simply select "Balloon Fiesta Park/ N. I-25" in the location field before you search.
 
The closest Native American owned hotel and casino to Balloon Fiesta Park is the Sandia Resort & Casino, however there are several others near Albuquerque. Check here for a complete list.  
Q: Where is the Hot Air Baloon Park located? Which Hampton Inn is located near the Hot air baloon park?
A: Balloon Fiesta Park field is located at Alameda Boulevard Northeast, Albuquerque, NM 87113. It is on the north end of town. The nearest Hampton Inn to the field is the Hampton Inn - North (www.hamptoninn.com/hi/albuquerque-north)
Q: We're having a picnic for our reunion in June & I wanted to see how much it would cost to rent a balloon for 2 hours that would be tethered down so kids could go up & down in it. We don't have too much money but we have some.
A: The problem is that in June, except for some early mornings, it is almost always too hot to safely fly. And to tether a balloon requires that there be almost NO wind. That almost never happens around here as you know at that time of year, and especially later that 8am. Unfortunately, I don't think your idea will work. And even if it did, renting balloons for tether rides is quite expensive, because its really hard on the balloon and the pilot. Sorry I don't have better news! 
Q: My friend Ida, is 83 years old good health and i am 61 in same health. Where do you recommend that we lodge to get to the easier way to the festival 2010 (Oct)? Is there local route transportation to the festival or would it be best to rent a vehicle?
A:
There are several lodging options that are near Balloon Fiesta Park. I recommend checking out this lodging list and narrowing your results by location (enter Balloon Fiesta Park/ N. I-25). Or have a look at our interactive lodging map to get a good idea of what is where in relation to the park.
 
Albuquerque is a very spread out city, so I always recommend renting a car. However if that isn't an option, many hotels have a shuttle service available during Fiesta. It's best to contact the hotel directly to get details.  Also, if you do not choose to stay in the Balloon Fiesta Park neighborhood, you can use the Fiesta Express Park & Ride for a convenient and affordable transportation option. 
Q: Which direction do the balloons travel? We would like to see them along their route.
A: The balloons travel in whatever direction the air currents and breezes take them. Because there are no steering wheels in hot air balloons, pilots alter their course by rising up and/or dropping down into different altitudes to find the wind pattern they need. The best flight days in Albuquerque typically follow a north-south wind pattern called the Albuquerque Box.  It is also important to know that throughout the year, most pilots prefer to launch near the Rio Grande for the most scenic view.
Q: What outfitter would you recommend flying with? Will be in the area at the end of August. Als will be visiting the Northern Regions of New mExico. Is the ballooning up North more picturesque?
A: I recommend checking out: www.itsatrip.org/activities/hot-air-ballooning for a great list of reputable balloon companies. If you are looking for one in particular, I can tell you that Rainbow Ryders is very popular and they are the official flying company of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Northern New Mexico is absolutely gorgeous and definitely worth seeing. If you have the opportunity to see it from a hot air balloon, all the better! 
Q: Where do the balloons launch from during the fiesta (address) and where was the picture taken of all the balloons over the river? Thank you
A: During Balloon Fiesta, balloons launch right off of the Balloon Fiesta Park field (4401 Alameda Boulevard Northeast, Albuquerque, NM 87113). It is fantastic because visitors can walk around right on the field, get up close to the balloons and interact with the pilots. Unless there is a competition going on, there are no barriers to keep visitors off the field. The picture of the balloons flying over the river is taken just west of Balloon Fiesta Park over the Rio Grande River bosque. During Fiesta, the most skilled pilots will often attempt a "splash & dash" maneuver, which entails dropping the gondola all the way down to the river, dipping it in the water, and then lifting back up to a high altitude.  Quite the feat! 
Q: Going to be in albuquerque in september, i wanted to go on a balloon ride, but was suprised by the price. who should i go through for the best price.
A: It's true that taking a balloon ride can be a little pricey... but if you can afford it, I promise you won't regret the experience!  I think your best bet is to check out these Albuquerque coupons where you will find several coupons from various ballooning companies, offering as much as a 20% discount off the regular fare.  
Q: I am planning on visiting the 2010 Balloon Fiesta. I have never been to NM and have never been ballooning. I am traveling alone. What do you suggest? Are there any travel packages with lodging and ballon rides? What about a bed abd breakfast? Thank you
A: So glad you will be joining us for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta this year! The Fiesta is in its 39th year and will run October 2-10. You can always find special hotel deals and coupons for Fiesta, but the specifics vary year to year. Check out www.itsatrip.org/balloonfiesta to see what was offered last year. As the event gets closer, updated special offers and packages will be posted, so please check back.  I also definitely recommend checking out the lodging section of the Albuquerque CVB website (www.itsatrip.org/lodging) where you can search by type of hotel or area of town. If you aren't planning on renting a car, I recommend staying near the field in the Balloon Fiesta Park neighborhood.  
Q: Are there any discount codes or coupons for the Albuquerque Balloon Festial? My wife and I were planning on buying the tickets for the Gondola Club however its $200.
A: For a more affordable alternative to the Gondola Club, you might try the Chasers Club instead. At only $20/person/session, you get: access to the private tent & to the outdoor lounge located on the north end of the park; beverages, pastries and a hot food item such as green chile-chicken soup, breakfast bake, green chile stew, hamburgers, hot dogs or barbeque; the opportunity to enjoy a cocktail while you enjoy watching hundreds of balloons decorating the Albuquerque sky.

If that still doesn't sound quite right for you, you might just try doing regular Balloon Fiesta admission. Being on the field with the balloons and eating the delicious food from the vendors is a very special, authentic experience all its own.
Q: How often does the Fiesta Park&Ride Express run back and forth between the park and the parking locations? Is there a timetable? Thanks.
A: The Park & Ride schedule can be found at: http://www.balloonfiesta.com/content/fiesta-express-park-ride. Have fun at Fiesta!
Q: We’re coming to Albuquerque in July. We don’t have enough money to take a hot air balloon ride and we’re not visiting during the big balloon festival …is there anything else for us to do that is balloon-related?
A: Ballooning is an expensive activity but never fear! You can still experience the wonder of ballooning year-round in Albuquerque.  Stop by the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum (www.cabq.gov/balloon), a comprehensive facility dedicated to the art, culture, science, history and sport to learn about hot air ballooning. The museum features one of the world’s finest collections of hot air ballooning equipment and memorabilia. Also, on most mornings around sunrise, if you look toward the western part of the city, you’ll see several balloons above the river. 
Q: Why is Albuquerque so well known for ballooning?
A: Why Albuquerque? The weather here is widely considered to be the best in the world for ballooning. In the famous "Albuquerque Box" pattern, the wind blows predictably north at one elevation and south at another, allowing pilots to launch, fly a great distance, then change altitude to return close to the launch site. This unique pattern, created by the interplay of clear skies, low humidity and elevation, is common on early October mornings during Balloon Fiesta, usually dissipating by midday. Albuquerque's ideal conditions have earned it not only the International Balloon Fiesta, but also the title of Balloon Capital of the World.  
Q: I've always wanted to take a balloon ride. I finally have enough money so I booked the trip, the hotel and the balloon ride. But now that I know it’s really going to happen, I’m getting a little nervous…Should I be scared? How dangerous is it really?
A: Anxiety is pretty frequent for first time flyers. You should know, though, that once you are aloft, you shouldn’t expect a thrill-ride.  Being in a hot air balloon really isn’t scary—it’s more peaceful than anything. There are risks involved with everything, and ballooning is no different.  But for me the reward far outweighs the risk.  Before you go up, make sure you choose an experienced pilot, pay attention to the rules and stay alert but mostly, have fun! You’ll feel like a kid again when you’re soaring high above the clouds.  Take time to enjoy the quiet, gentle peace of the sky.  
Q: I’m coming to Albuquerque in mid-September and have always wanted to take a hot air balloon ride. I know it won’t be during Balloon Fiesta, but do you think it’s still possible to balloon then?
A: Because Albuquerque has such amazing weather – 310 days of sunshine a year—it’s possible to balloon almost every day.  Local hot air balloon companies provide rides for visitors on a daily basis. For more information about how to arrange a balloon ride go to: http://www.itsatrip.org/activities/hot-air-ballooning/default.aspx
Q: How much is it to take a hot air balloon ride and how do I get the ball rolling?
A: Local hot air balloon companies provide rides for visitors on a daily basis.  There are a number of different commercial hot air balloon companies so you’ll want to contact them directly to get the ball rolling.  The cost will vary depending on which company you choose. Go to: http://www.itsatrip.org/activities/hot-air-ballooning/default.aspx?all=1 for a list of commercial hot air balloon companies.  Have fun! 
Q: What is the difference between a hot air balloon and a gas balloon? Is it just a matter of preference or is one better than the other?
A:
First, there are many similarities between gas and hot air balloons.  Both have an envelope (the part of the balloon that holds the gas or hot air) and both have a gondola (the basket that carries the pilots and passengers). Gas balloons ascend because the gas inside is less dense and lighter than the air on the outside of the balloon. Hot air balloons rise because heating up regular air makes its molecules expand, becoming lighter than the surrounding atmosphere.  So, in order to fly, both types require that whatever is inside the envelope to be lighter than what is outside. With both kinds of balloons, pilots try to control their direction by taking advantage of different wind currents at different altitudes. 

Gas balloons take a bigger team to launch, are more expensive and can stay aloft for much longer than hot air balloons so they are often used in distance races and challenges.  

Q: Being from near Pittsburgh,pa I have come to hate traffic jams Are there any shuttle services from Hotels or places that are easy to leave from to take you to the park? We have been to the Reno festival several times but must see the one in Albuquerque
A: To be honest, traffic getting in to Balloon Fiesta can get a little hairy. The best way to avoid the traffic is to make sure and leaveearly. Also, there are several shuttle services in and out of the park. I recommend the Fiesta Express Park & Ride for a convenient and affordable option or the ABQ Trolley Co. for a fun, one-of-a-kind experience. 
Q: Can you please explain further whether how the viewing differs in a Chasers tent? Is the patio a great picture taking spot?
A: The Chasers Club is a private tent with indoor and outdoor seating and includes a hot food item, pastries and refreshments. The tent is located on the north end of the field and offers two outdoor patios that have excellent views of the launch site. Memberships are $20/ session and you can purchase them at: www.balloonfiesta.com.

If its views you are really after, though, you might also consider the Diamond Club in the new Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum. The Diamond Club offers above-the-crowd views of the Fiesta and features views of the entire field from an enclosed VIP lounge and heated balcony overlooking the park. Diamond Club packages include VIP parking, a fully catered breakfast or dinner buffet, field admission passes, admission to the museum and complimentary shuttles to the field from the club and back. Passes are just $65 each for adults and $35 each for kids per event. Check out: www.diamondclubfiesta.com for tickets.
Q: Where can I find a definitive list of all the balloon companies in ABQ??? Thanks!
A: Unfortunately, no such list exists at this point in time. Your best bet is to go to: http://www.itsatrip.org/activities/hot-air-ballooning/default.aspx where you will find the vast majority of them.
Q: When is the balloon fiesta & how much dose it cost to ride a balloon ???? thanks
A: The next Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta will be held October 2-10, 2010. The cost of balloon rides vary depending on which company you choose and when you want to fly.  I recommend contacting a few different companies directly to get a quote. Visit www.itsatrip.org/activities/hot-air-ballooning for a good list of commercial ballooning companies. We hope you decide to come visit! 
Q: What are the dates for the 2010 balloon fest
A: The 39th Annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta will be October 2-10, 2010.
Q: If you had only 1 day to spend at the Balloon Fiesta, would a weekend day or weekday be a better experience? We are staying in Santa Fe, would you recommend getting a room in Albuquerque for 1 night? Thank you.
A:
If I only had one day to experience Balloon Fiesta I would definitely try to come on a day when their are events in both the morning and evening. This year, October 2, 3 & 9 all have morning Mass Ascensions (when all 600+ of the balloons go up at once) and evening Balloon Glows & fireworks shows. On October 7 & 8 this year, you can experience the Special Shape Rodeo in the morning and the Special Shape Glowdeo & fireworks show in the evening. You can get more schedule information on the Balloon Fiesta website. 
 
As for the lodging part of your question- If you plan on going to a morning event, I highly recommend you stay in Albuquerque the night before. Balloon Fiesta events start very early in the morning. Dawn Patrol goes up at 5:45 a.m. and the Mass Ascensions begin at 6:45 a.m. On top of that, traffic is usually very heavy and slow-moving getting into the park.  For people staying in Albuquerque I usually recommend they leave their houses/hotels no later than 5:00 a.m. to make it in on-time, so if you were to stay in Santa Fe you would probably need to leave your hotel around 3:30 a.m. to make it. 

Hope that helps!  
Q: I'm planning attending the ballon fiesta this oct. but having diffcult time finding the nearest lodging. I will br flying and not planning renting a car.
A: Balloon Fiesta Park is located on I-25 in North Albuquerque. For the best list of hotels in the area, please visit www.itsatrip.org/lodging and enter Balloon Fiesta Park/N. I-25 in the location field. Or, for a more visual representation of what is in the area, try this interactive lodging map. If you don't find anything near Balloon Fiesta Park that fits your needs, you might also try looking in Albuquerque's Uptown area - Balloon Fiesta offers a very convenient shuttle service from Uptown to the park. 
Q: My husband and I are interested in a balloon ride this weekend and would like to know how much it would cost. Could you please let me know how much a balloon ride is? Thank you!
A:
Truthfully, the cost of a balloon ride can vary widely depending on the company you choose. I recommend calling few different ballooning companies to compare prices.  Also, you might consider checking out these Albuquerque coupons where you will find several ballooning coupons that offer as much as a 20% discount off the regular fare. 
 
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