The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is one of the highlights of the hot air ballooning calendar. This year was no exception. In order to celebrate 50 years of hot air ballooning in Albuquerque, this year’s gathering was bigger and brighter than ever before. Nearly 120 hot air balloons came to join the 9-day bonanza from across the globe.
A particular favourite this year was Steggy the dinosaur-shaped balloon, who made the trip over from Brazil. He was joined by Star Wars-shaped balloons from Belgium, and Dutch balloons in the shape of popular children’s book characters. Unicorns, tigers, sloths, and other curious beasts also joined them in the skies.
Each day of the bonanza kicked off with a dawn patrol and morning glow as the sun rose. Various ascents were planned throughout the fiesta. The special shaped ascent was one of these. Throughout the rest of the days, visitors had the chance to meet the pilots and to find out more about the world of hot air ballooning.
Chainsaw carving exhibitions and auctions kept people busy while the balloons were not flying. Skydiving and light displays also wowed the crowds. A classic night glow rounded off each day. A perennial favourite of the fiesta, no ballooning event would be complete without it. Hot air balloons continue to delight people of all ages. To discover this magic for yourself, why not book one of our hot air balloon flights over Bath, Bristol and other areas in the southwest?
