It's that time of year again — the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the world's largest hot air balloon festival will take place from October 1 to October 9, 2016. This vibrant, globally renowned event attracts thousands of people every year, and for good reason. Situated in the gorgeous Balloon Fiesta Park which offers panoramic mountain views, the festivities can draw in more than 80,000 spectators to the friendly atmosphere.
The fresh fall air, the aroma of warm food, and the celebratory ambiance fills the park as guests wait for these amazing shows. What can you expect? Well, that depends on your ticket. The Chasers' Club ticket is an upgraded experience that offers you special seating in an exclusive, alfresco patio right in front of the launch field. In addition, this ticket choice provides you with hot dishes, dessert, and refreshments. The most luxurious way to witness any of the Balloon Fiesta events, the Chasers' Club option will give you a truly unforgettable experience.
The Gondola Club ticket will also allow you your own private viewing spot, complete with private parking, a buffet meal, and a served bar. Alternatively, you can opt for a General Admission ticket, the classic experience offering you all the fun and essentials needed to enjoy the incredible Fiesta and its most important feature — the shows themselves.
Whether you're a balloon buff who's fascinated by the pilots, mechanics, and workings of these incredible machines, someone simply looking to enjoy the show, or a collector who's there for the artisan crafts and local masterpieces on display, you'll positively love the offerings at the Fiesta. Maybe you're there for the Fiesta of Wheels Car Show, the amazing local food vendors, or just to spend a memorable day out with the family. No matter what, you're bound to be awestruck. Explore the 2016 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta event schedule below!
Saturday October 1
Morning Session
6:00
- Dawn Patrol Show, presented by Route 66 Casino Hotel & RV Resort
- Laser Light Show
6:30
- Krispy Kreme Morning Glow
6:45
- Opening Ceremonies
7:00
- Mass Ascension, presented by Canon
8:30-11:30
- AIBF Chainsaw Carving Invitational
Evening Session
1:30-5:00
- AIBF Chainsaw Carving Invitational (Auction and Raffle - 5:00 p.m.)
5:45
- Twilight Twinkle Glow™
7:45
- Laser Light Show
8:00
- AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show, presented in part by the Albuquerque Journal
Sunday October 2
Morning Session
6:00
- Dawn Patrol Show, presented by Route 66 Casino Hotel & RV Resort
- Laser Light Show
6:30
- Krispy Kreme Morning Glow
7:00
- Mass Ascension
8:30-11:30
- AIBF Chainsaw Carving Invitational
9:00
- Fiesta of Wheels Car Show, located on Launch Field
11:00
- Balloon Fiesta Pin Trading (Group Tour Tent north end of Main Street
Evening Session
1:30-5:00
- AIBF Chainsaw Carving Invitational (Auction and Raffle - 5:00 p.m.)
5:45
- Balloon Glow
7:45
- Laser Light Show
8:00
- AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show, presented in part by the Albuquerque Journal
Monday October 3 - Propane Day | Presented By Airgas, An Air Liquide Company
Morning Session
6:00
- Dawn Patrol
- Laser Light Show
7:00
- Balloons Launch
8:00
- Balloon Competition Flying Begins
8:00-11:00
- AIBF Chainsaw Carving Demonstrations
Evening Session
- No events
Tuesday October 4 - Pepsi Day
Morning Session
6:00
- Dawn Patrol
- Laser Light Show
7:00
- Balloons Launch
8:00
- Balloon Competition Flying Begins
8:00-11:00
- AIBF Chainsaw Carving Demonstrations
Evening Session
- No events
Wednesday October 5
Morning Session
6:00
- Dawn Patrol Show, presented by Route 66 Casino Hotel & RV Resort
- Laser Light Show
6:30
- Krispy Kreme Morning Glow
7:00
- Flight of the Nations Mass Ascension
8:00
- Balloon Competition Flying Begins
8:30-11:30
- AIBF Chainsaw Carving Demonstrations
Evening Session
2:00
- America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race Inflation
6:00
- America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race Launch
Thursday October 6 - Kids' Day | Presented by KOB-TV
Morning Session
6:00
- Dawn Patrol
- Laser Light Show
7:00
- Special Shape Rodeo™ presented by Wells Fargo Bank Balloon Launch
8:00
- Balloon Competition Flying begins
8:30-11:30
- AIBF Chainsaw Carving Invitational
Evening Session
1:30-5:00
- AIBF Chainsaw Carving Invitational (Auction and Raffle - 5:00 p.m.
6:00
- Special Shape Glowdeo™
7:45
- Laser Light Show
8:00
- AfterGlowTM Fireworks Show, presented in part by the Albuquerque Journal
Friday October 7
Morning Session
6:00
- Dawn Patrol
- Laser Light Show
7:00
- Special Shape Rodeo™ Balloon Launch
8:00
- New Mexico Buick GMC Dealers Flying Competition
8:30-11:30
- AIBF Chainsaw Carving Invitational
Evening Session
1:30-5:00
- AIBF Chainsaw Carving Invitational (Auction and Raffle - 5:00 p.m.)
6:00
- Special Shape Glowdeo™
- Laser Light Show
8:00
- AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show, presented in part by the Albuquerque Journal
Saturday October 8
Morning Session
6:00
- Dawn Patrol Show, presented by Route 66 Casino Hotel & RV Resort
- Laser Light Show
6:30
- Krispy Kreme Morning Glow
7:00
- Mass Ascension
8:30-11:30
- AIBF Chainsaw Carving Invitational
11:00
- Balloon Fiesta Pin Trading (Group Tour Tent north end of Main Street)
Evening Session
1:00-5:30
- Music Fiesta™
1:30-5:00
- AIBF Chainsaw Carving Invitational (Auction and Raffle - 5:00 p.m.)
6:00
- Night Magic™ Glow presented by Canon
7:45
- Laser Light Show
8:00
- AfterGlow™Fireworks Show, presented in part by the Albuquerque Journal
Sunday October 9
Morning Session
6:00
- Dawn Patrol Show, presented by Route 66 Casino Hotel & RV Resort
- Laser Light Show
6:30
- Krispy Kreme Morning Glow
7:00
- Farewell Mass Ascension
8:30-11:00
- AIBF Chainsaw Carving Q&A
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