“How to Plan Your Visit to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta 2024”
Due to inclement weather, attendees of the 2024 White Sands Balloon Invitational at White Sands couldn’t enjoy the traditional balloon flights on Sept. 21. However, the weather turned calm and cool on Sept. 22, allowing around 14 hot air balloons to lift off from Ed Brabson Balloon Park in Alamogordo, New Mexico.
Hot air balloon enthusiasts can look forward to another exciting event this fall, with the upcoming Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta 2024 scheduled for Oct. 5-13. As the world’s largest ballooning event, it attracts balloon pilots from across the globe, including participants from Canada and Spain.
Dave Chelgren, a member of the White Sands event committee, mentioned that pilots are always prepared for the possibility that flights may not occur due to weather conditions. “It’s always nice to have a fly day, and to end on a good note is always a great thing,” he said on Sept. 22 as balloons floated overhead.
Chelgren also highlighted that weather delays and cancellations are common in the ballooning community. “We always tell people, ‘We would rather disappoint you than hurt you.’ If there’s questionable weather conditions, we are not going to launch,” he emphasized.
This year marked the 31st year of the White Sands Balloon Invitational, though there were two non-fly years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bob Flotte, president of Rock 97.5 FM in Alamogordo, provided live commentary on Sept. 22, expressing how watching the balloons fly is always a special experience. “With everyday life and the world full of problems, it’s always nice to have fun and watch the balloons launch and the kids play,” he shared.
As for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta 2024, here’s everything you need to know:
Dates and Times of Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta 2024
The Balloon Fiesta will be held at Balloon Fiesta Park, located north of Alameda Boulevard, about one mile west of I-25. The mass balloon launch takes place daily at 7 a.m., with various events occurring throughout the day. Other activities include a drone light show at 5:45 a.m., a Krispy Kreme Morning Glow at 6:30 a.m., and a Twilight Twinkle Glow at 6:30 p.m. Sessions for fiesta tickets will run from 4:30 a.m. to noon or 3 to 9 p.m.
How to Get Tickets for Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta 2024
General admission tickets are $15 per person, while children aged 12 and under can attend for free. Tickets are available online at www.balloonfiesta.com. It’s important to note that the fiesta is weather-dependent, and tickets are non-refundable. If the event is canceled due to weather, a rain check will be issued for that session.
To use a rain check, retain your original ticket, which will be re-activated as a general admission ticket for any remaining session in the current year.
General admission tickets grant entry into Balloon Fiesta Park for a single session and include access to the Balloon Discovery Center, Main Street, Artisans at Balloon Fiesta, shopping, entertainment, and, of course, the balloons. There are no evening sessions on Oct. 7, 8, 9, or the last Sunday, Oct. 13. New Mexico residents will enjoy free admission on Oct. 7.
When to Arrive at Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta 2024
Due to large crowds—often exceeding 80,000—it’s advisable to arrive early. For weekend events, aim to arrive between 4-4:30 a.m., while for evening events, plan to be at the park by 4 p.m. Gates open at 4:30 a.m. for morning sessions and at 3 p.m. for evening sessions.
How to Book a Balloon Ride at Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta 2024
Rainbow Ryders, the official balloon ride concession, offers rides from Balloon Fiesta Park during the event. Prices range from $159-$225 per person, depending on the chosen day. To reserve a seat, call 800-725-2477 or visit www.rainbowryders.com.
Parking at Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta 2024
General parking is available on the north and south ends of the park, with a $20 fee per session. Parking lots are color-coded, and the gates are numbered, so be sure to remember the gate through which you entered. Cash is the only accepted payment method for parking.
Bringing Food and Drinks to Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Attendees are welcome to bring their own food and drinks, but glass and alcohol are prohibited. Please note that all bags and coolers will be subject to search.
