Attending the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
The AIBF lasts for nine days during the first part of October. The dates for 2019 are October 5-13, 2019.
During these 9 days there are many events and what are called sessions. Some days may have two sessions, one morning and one evening. The morning session on designated days feature Dawn Patrol, Special Shapes, Mass Ascensions and more. The evening sessions on designated days feature the Glows and Fireworks.
General Admission is $10 per session for persons 13 and older. Children 12 and younger are free. Parking is $15 per car. One can purchase tickets in advance online or at the event ticket booths and packets of 5 tickets are $45.
Tickets are non-refundable, however if a session is canceled due to weather or safety issue, they can be used as a rain check for another session.
Our Presidents Compound RV site comes with 4 length of stay passes. This helps me feel better about the price we are paying for the RV site.
I would recommend planning on a stay of a minimum of 4 days. This gives you a fudge factor in the event of bad weather cancelling a session.
WHEN SHOULD WE GET THERE - EARLY EARLY EARLY
First on weekend days the crowds get large 80,000 so early is a good thing. Gates open at 0430 for morning sessions and 1500 for evening sessions.
No pets are allowed on the launch field, ADA service animals are allowed and emotional support animals are not.
There is NO SMOKING on the launch field. Makes sense as there is 100,000 gallons of propane present.
Chairs, outside food, packs and bags are allowed and will be searched prior to admittance. Also starting this year there will be walk through scanners at the entry gates.
I have seen folks spread out a blanket for a picnic and there are a few picnic tables available.
Weather can be cool with temperatures ranging from 40F to 70F as the day warms up. Also remember you are at an altitude of just over 5,000’ so don’t forget the sunscreen.
Future Dates of the AIBF -
2020 October 3-11
2021 October 2-10 - 50th anniversary
2022 October 1-9
A word to the wise is one needs to plan early for lodging.
The AIBF web site is a great place for planning information and here is a link https://balloonfiesta.com/
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