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The 2026 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta opened on October 3 with a drone light show and a Mass Ascension, as more than 500 balloons launch over New Mexico.
Hundreds of hot-air balloons rose over Albuquerque, New Mexico, on Saturday, October 3, 2026, as the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta got underway. The nine-day event, considered the world's largest ballooning festival, is scheduled to run through October 11.
The opening day began with a drone light show at approximately 5:45 a.m. local time, or 1145 GMT. The display featured images of hot-air balloons, New Mexico's state bird, the roadrunner, as well as chili peppers and Mexican-themed skulls.
The festival's signature Mass Ascension started at around 7:00 a.m. local time, or 1300 GMT. Hundreds of balloons launched into the clear morning sky above Balloon Fiesta Park.
More Than 500 Balloons Expected
Organizers say more than 500 balloons are scheduled to take part during the fiesta. The event draws visitors and balloon enthusiasts from around the world to New Mexico each year.
The Mass Ascension is the fiesta's most recognizable spectacle, when participating balloons lift off in waves from the launch field. The clear morning conditions on opening day allowed the launches to proceed as planned.
The 2026 edition opened with the drone light show before dawn, a modern addition to a festival long defined by its traditional balloon launches. The show incorporated local and cultural imagery, including the roadrunner, chili peppers and Mexican-themed skulls.
History of the Balloon Fiesta
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta was founded in 1972. That first gathering involved just 13 balloons launching from a shopping mall parking lot.
Since then, the event has grown into one of New Mexico's best-known annual events. It now attracts visitors and balloon enthusiasts from around the world, according to organizers.
The fiesta's growth reflects Albuquerque's reputation as a prime location for ballooning, with its weather and landscape suited to the sport. The event has become a fixture on the city's calendar and a major draw for tourism in the state.
The 2026 festival continues through October 11, with hundreds of balloons expected over the course of its nine days. The opening day events took place at Balloon Fiesta Park.
Video coverage of the event was provided by the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and Reuters.
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