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Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta - what it's like
Someone just posted about the fiesta, which starts tomorrow. They said they would love for someone to post a report about it if they were going. A link was attached, and apparently it got deleted because someone thought it was an ad. I don't think it was, I didn't click the link but I thing the person simply put the link in because that was where they learned about the fiesta. I took the time to write a reply and then when I tried to post it, the thread was gone.
So, for the person who wanted to know what the fiesta was like: I live in the area. This is something that should be on everyone's bucket list. There is nothing like the majesty of 500+ balloons launching into the skies as the sun comes up. The variety of shapes, sizes, colors as they line up and inflate and then lift off is mesmerizing! At night, the balloons are tethered and they inflate and then do short "burns" which make them glow - these events are know as glowdeo's. This time of year has our best whether - azure blue skies, abundant, brilliant sunshine and mild temperatures. It is cold in the dark of the morning, before lift off, so folks are bundled up, drinking hot cocoa, eating breakfast burritos and cinnamon buns, the unofficial breakfast of fiesta. The balloons lift off in waves of about 20 at a time; they have lined up and the ascend row by row. I have been lucky enough to have flown over a dozen times. It is so quiet as you float over the beautiful southwest landscape. The only sound is the "whoosh" from the pulls of the propane as the pilot burns to gain lift. There is something magical about being able to look over the side of the basket and see you own shadow on the ground below. It is the closest I'll ever get to being a bird in flight. http://www.balloonfiesta.com/ |
We went up to Sandia Crest from rt. 14 last week and I was wondering if you could watch the balloons from there. It seems like it might be great, but might get a bit crowded.
Have you ever tried that? |
It is a long ride from my house at that hour of the morning, so no. It's also REALLY cold up there! Most of the time I am on a chase crew and am on the field.
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Where would you recommend as good viewing places? I've never been to Albuquerque, but will be there Sunday night & Monday.
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You can usually see the balloons along the I 25 corridor [you cannot, for obvious reasons stop on the shoulders and BE CAREFUL driving because people are busy looking at balloons and not paying attention to traffic!!] A lot depends on the direction of the winds as to which way they go. They are not allowed to fly over the airport or air base, so they don't usually so further south than Central Ave.
Ideally, when the winds co-operate, we have what is known as the Albuquerque Box, which keeps the balloons pretty much over the vicinity of the field, the river to the west and of course to the west of the mountains. I strongly suggest that you go to the field to really fully experience the fiesta. Where are you staying? Sunday night there is a glow [which you cannot see unless your are at the park since the balloons are tethered] and fireworks after. Monday morning doesn't have a mass ascension, but there will be balloons going up - can't say how many. Nothing scheduled for Monday night. |
Thanks Debit, we've just booked the marriott courtyard at I25 & Highway 423. I'll check with the hotel to see if they have a shuttle!
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Great location. Not sure if they have shuttle, but the Marriott Pyramid is right next door, they might have one.
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Thanks Debit, I hope to get out there some day for the fiesta.
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They are launching right now, but it is a slow start as the winds were a bit high. As the sun comes up; more are inflating and starting to launch. The winds are calming down a bit and heading south, which is good. They were heading southeast before, towards the mountains and that's not good as there are few places to land. That is one of the biggest concerns here - places to land.
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Thanks, Debit. Your info is very helpful. The photos are Mazing, wish we could see the mass liftoff! We will be on the field Sunday evening however.
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AbbyAdams, here is park and ride information in case neither hotel has a shuttle.
http://www.balloonfiesta.com/guest-guide/park-ride The Cliff's location is closest to where you're staying. Lee Ann |
I don't think it is worth going to Cliffs to do park & ride. Abby is almost AT the park. I would take the shot at driving there if there is no shuttle. Cliff's is small parking lot, it was filled up pretty early this morning.
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We just got back to our hotel from the festival. After dark different balloons would light up, and every so often they'd all light up at once, it was quite a sight! I was amazed at how many there are, and the row after row of booths selling food, clothes, souvenirs, jewelry, etc. the fireworks were fantastic, all in all a great way to start our vacation! We were picked up by friends here and so didn't have to worry about the shuttle, but we'll have to check shuttles in the morning. There's a shuttle schedule at the front desk I haven't looked at yet.
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Its awesome. I was in ABQ about a yr ago with friends and my dog. Morning lift off and night glow are both great but chilly. Wear layers/jacket. I didnt dog cause felt it would be disruptive. Actually found a pet sitter that came to my hotel while i was out . I think i just googled "hotel pet sitter albuquerque"?? Sorry dont recall name of biz.
Anyway, anyone goiong there shld definitely check out balloon fiesta ! |
I was able to call for reliable transportation to and from the balloon fiesta park. Local NM company always ready and willing to help.
http://wtmllc.com/ http://wtmllc.com/balloon-fiesta-transportation/ |
To Marcos - the problem with your company is that a limo or any other "passenger" vehicle will be caught in traffic just like private cars.
The buses get special lanes to enter the parking lots. And btw - advertising isn't allowed here. |
Hi Debit,
Thank you for the valuable insight. Attending Balloon Fiesta for the last 10 years and I've never seen this "special lane" you speak of. With over 1 million people visiting the city for the event, traffic is as traffic does, it's all about your planning (pre arranged transportation) because I assure you public transportation in Albuquerque at 3-4am is not a pleasant experience. Most visitors to NM are not the RTD taking type. Thanks though. btw: when you have some relevant advice for travelers please post. |
DebitNM is right about the park and ride buses. We've used them a few times and always appreciate being able to get there without waiting in line to find a parking place.
http://www.balloonfiesta.com/guest-guide/park-ride Lee Ann |
"btw: when you have some relevant advice for travelers please post."
that's pretty funny. Maybe you should research a bit before you post - as in, I started this post and I have been posting info on here for 13+ years. Oh, and I was an Ultimate Fodorite as chosen by my peers. Perhaps you should need to follow relevant rules - as in -"no advertising allowed" And I guess you haven't ever been in a bus going into the parking area - they in fact have their own lanes/entrance. |
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