2026.10.03 — 2026.10.11 · Ended
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta 2026
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta runs 3–11 October. Morning sessions bring the mass ascensions and special-shape balloons; evening sessions bring the Balloon Glow, when balloons stay on the ground and light up one by one with their burners. Morning and evening are ticketed separately: USD 22.24 per adult per session, free for 12 and under. Whether balloons fly depends on the wind.
General admission takes you onto the launch field to watch envelopes inflate, burners roar and ground crews hold the ropes until the balloon leaves the ground.
Short videos usually cut this part: a burner roars, the envelope swells and stands upright, and one after another they rise into the brightening sky.
During the Balloon Glow the balloons stay on the ground; when the burners fire, each envelope lights up against the night.
Across the field they flare and fade one after another, like giant lanterns breathing.
Checked · 2026-09-20
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2023 · G. Edward Johnson · Photo source · CC BY 4.0 · Preview cropped; enlarge for full image. · Report image rights
Strong wind can cancel flights; cancelled sessions usually become general admission for a remaining session that year, not a cash refund.
Morning and evening are ticketed separately; admission does not include a balloon ride.
Not every evening has a Balloon Glow; check the official schedule before buying an evening session.
Official 2025 park reference showing the launch field, entrances, parking and services. Check current guidance for 2026 temporary facilities, parking assignments and access.
2026-10-03–2026-10-11; consult the official calendar for individual operating dates and times.
America/DenverConsider official Park & Ride and leave substantial travel time before dawn sessions.
Adult per session USD 22.24. USD20 face value plus2.24 fee; ages12 and under free. Morning and evening are separate sessions; balloon rides are not included.
USD 22.24 · free for 12 and under
Check current official accessible routes and companion policies.
Dates and entry details refer to this edition; individual sessions may differ.
G. Edward Johnson · CC BY 4.0 Image source
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Information checked on 2026-09-20
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