Albuquerque Balloon Festival
From a small gathering of 13 balloons in 1972, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (more commonly referred to as the Albuquerque Balloon Festival) has grown to become the largest balloon event in the world. Held each year during the first week in October, the Balloon Fiesta now features about 600 balloons and 700 pilots.
Join us in 2026 for the Albuquerque Balloon Festival / Fiesta!
Please note: Space does fill up quickly and will sell out. Please plan early. We offer a deposit/interest free monthly payment plan option for all guests.
Come take flight with us in Albuquerque!
When is the Balloon Festival
The Balloon Festival traditionally takes place the first week of October every year.
2026 Dates: October 3-11, 2026
Package Dates: Friday, October 9 – Monday, October 12, 2026
WHAT'S INCLUDED
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3 Night Stay at Hotel Albuquerque or Hotel Chaco. Located in Old Town and convenient to restaurants, bars, and shopping.
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Balloon Festival - Guaranteed VIP Tickets the the Gondola Club on October 10 and 11 (morning sessions). Experience amazing views of the Mass Ascension and other festivities.
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Balloon Festival - Guaranteed GA admission to the night session on October 10. Balloon Glow, Live Music, Fireworks and more!
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RT shuttle service between the festival grounds and the hotel
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Food and Drink - Breakfast buffet and hosted bar (up to three alcoholic drinks) Included in the Gondola Club
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Welcome Happy Hour
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On-Site assistance from Bucket List Events Staff
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All taxes and fees included
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Additional Nights or Optional Tours and Experiences (additional costs apply)
– Pricing is per person and based on double occupancy (two per room). Up to four people per room.
– Single Supplements available. Discuss with our team.
– Mass Ascensions and balloon flights are subject to weather conditions and can be postponed or cancelled at any time. The festival continues regardless.
– Additional Nights Available – starts at $795 per night
Historic Old Town Hotel
Your choice of three nights at either Hotel Albuquerque or Hotel Chaco, both located in the heart of Albuquerque. With 150+ galleries, shops, restaurants, and museums, the Historic Old Town of Albuquerque is considered the heart of the southwest.
VIP Balloon Festival Experience
Your choice of three nights at either Hotel Albuquerque or Hotel Chaco, both located in the heart of Albuquerque. With 150+ galleries, shops, restaurants, and museums, the Historic Old Town of Albuquerque is considered the heart of the southwest.
Balloon Glow + Fireworks
Experience the most spectacular single moment of the Balloon Fiesta, the Balloon Glow, when all the balloons fire their burners and light up at the same time. The Balloon Glow is followed by an unbelievable fireworks display. Each of our guests will receive a guaranteed night session ticket.
Optional Tours & Experiences
Whether you want to attend an evening session (and we think you should), enjoy an exclusive ride on a hot air balloon, or take a day trip, we can arrange these experiences for you. Additional costs apply.
About Hotel Albuquerque
Conveniently located in the heart of Old Town and the Sawmill District, offering traditional guest rooms that celebrate New Mexico in style. Enjoy a deluxe king or double bed guest room during your stay. All rooms have an expansive view of the Albuquerque Sandia Mountains or a private balcony. Amenities, including several on-site restaurant and bars and an outdoor resort swimming pool will complete your stay.
About Hotel Chaco
Situated in the heart of Albuquerque in the Historic Old Town and new urban Sawmill Districts, Hotel Chaco is a AAA 4 diamond boutique hotel in Albuquerque that beckons luxury travelers seeking authentic experiences. Hotel Chaco is the most distinct hotel in all of New Mexico. The unique room layouts are designed by world-famous architecture firm Gensler and feature authentic interior design with the best collection of contemporary Native American New Mexican artists on display. Hotel Chaco’s pale stone masonry facade and wooden accents are designed to work with the warm, dry climate of the Southwest and are reminiscent of architectural elements found at Chaco Canyon and in New Mexico’s Pueblos.
