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Festival · Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

“World's largest hot air balloon festival — 500+ balloons, 9 days + Special Shape Rodeo”

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the world's largest balloon event — 500+ balloons, 9 days in October. Mass Ascension mornings (500 balloons launch simultaneously at dawn), Special Shape Rodeo (Yoda, Darth Vader + more) + Balloon Glow evenings (illuminated balloons at night).

Upcoming dates

Next
2026
October 3-11 (9 days)
Following year
2027
October 2-10

First Saturday of October + following 8 days = 9 total. Fixed pattern every year.

Duration
9 days
Crowd
800,000+ visitors —
Budget/day
$150-350 (Albuquerque hotels 2-3× normal rates)
Book ahead
6+ months

Booking + planning tips

Best for: Photographers + families + festival travellers
  • ✓Book Albuquerque hotels 6-9 months ahead — sells out
  • ✓Mass Ascension at dawn (~06:45) — get to Balloon Fiesta Park by 05:30
  • ✓Balloon Glow evenings ~19:00 — illuminated tethered balloons
  • ✓Special Shape Rodeo (Yoda, Darth Vader, etc.) usually first + second weekend
  • ✓Session pass $15/day or all-9-days pass $50-70
  • ✓Ride a hot air balloon yourself: Rainbow Ryders $400-500 pp (book 3+ months ahead)

Book hotels for Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta 2026

Prices spike + hotels sell out during this event. Book 6+ months ahead.

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Airport transfer

Getting out of Albuquerque (ABQ)

Skip the taxi rank and lock in your fare before you land.

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Frequently asked

When is Balloon Fiesta 2027?
October 2-10, 2027 (9 days). Always starts first Saturday of October + runs 9 days.
How much does Balloon Fiesta cost?
Session pass $15/day, all-9-days pass $50-70. Ride a balloon $400-500 pp. Hotels 2-3× normal Albuquerque rates.
What is Mass Ascension?
The morning launch — 500+ balloons take off simultaneously at dawn (~06:45). Happens each morning weather permitting. Photographer's paradise.
How do I get to Balloon Fiesta Park?
Free park + ride shuttles from designated parking lots. Traffic is intense — arrive 2h before Mass Ascension. Or Uber.
When is best to visit Balloon Fiesta?
First weekend (peak — Special Shapes debut). Mid-week is quieter. Second weekend has Farewell Fireworks.