Albuquerque Balloon Fest 2018

One of our first stops after leaving Estes Part at the end of the season, was the Albuquerque Balloon Fest.  Several of the other hots at Mary’s Lake were also going, but they were to be there for the first week….we would be there for the end of the final week.

You have seen the pictures….hundreds of colorful hot air balloons, rising up into the morning sky.

Well, I am here to tell you that pictures do not even come close to capturing the feeling and atmosphere of being there in person.  This is truly one of those things you have to experience in person.

So, since I will not be able to adequately relate the experience, I will show you pictures, and hope that these, along with all the other facebook posts, and blogs, and personal messages you have seen and received from others will encourage you to put the Albuquerque Balloon Fest on your Bucket List!

We went for two days….one evening, and one morning session.  And trust me when I tell you, you will not be alone.  Embrace the crowds and look up….its all happening above you.

The evening session was highlighted by the Shape Glowdeo….over 100 different shaped balloons, tied to the ground, utilizing their propane flames to light up the balloons.  And for this, the sound is as much a part of the experience as the sights.  Here are some of our visuals.

The following morning, we went for the Mass Ascension.  It starts about 6a….with the Dawn Patrol, and then the majority of balloons lift off starting around 7a.  Again, you have to be there to really get the full impact of hundreds of balloons, and thousands of people.  Here are our visuals.

Enjoyed it?? You bet.  A once in a lifetime experience.  Makes you want to think about going to other renowned events….Quartzsite for the big RV show; Oshkosh for the planes; Hershey for the Corvettes…..

Anyway, hope you make it to Albuquerque some day.  You will not regret it.