2026
Photo by Scott Hughes
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Photo by Sibylle Maus
Photo by James Breen
Photo by James Breen
Some pilots perform a “splash and dash,” skillfully dipping the bottom of their balloon’s basket into the Rio Grande before lifting off again. This maneuver requires precision and calm winds, making it a favorite challenge for experienced balloonists.
Photo by Sibylle Maus
Beyond the beauty, ballooning is also a competitive sport, with pilots aiming for precision targets during events like the Sid Cutter Memorial Fly-in task. Skilled pilots drop markers to score points in thrilling aerial challenges.
Photo by James Breen
Photo by Sibylle Maus
The 365-acre Balloon Fiesta Park provides the perfect launch field with room for hundreds of balloons. Its vast open space and smooth grass make it an ideal location for safe takeoffs and landings.
Photo by Victor Banta
A fan-favorite evening event, the Special Shape Glowdeo® features uniquely shaped balloons lighting up the night while remaining tethered to the ground. Pilots fire their burners in unison, creating a mesmerizing display of glowing colors and whimsical shapes.
Photo by Victor Banta
One of the most breathtaking sights in ballooning, Mass Ascension features hundreds of colorful balloons lifting off in waves. Pilots navigate the famous “Albuquerque Box,” a weather phenomenon that allows for controlled flight patterns.
Photo by Victor Banta
Photo by Sibylle Maus
Photo by Sibylle Maus
From pigs to dinosaurs to monsters, the Special Shapes Rodeo brings larger-than-life characters to the sky. These unique balloons are crowd favorites, delighting both children and adults alike.
Photo by Sibylle Maus
OFFICIAL 2026 EDITION
