Tips for Enjoying
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Our "The Best of New Mexico" Virtual Tour CD includes this printable information and much more!

TIP: Consider coming a day or two early. Albuquerque is at an elevation of some 5,000 feet. This mile-high altitude can cause discomfort, especially if you are a “flat-lander.” The combination of altitude and arid climate may call for a period of adjustment before you can really enjoy yourself.


TIP: Because there is so much traffic during the Balloon Fiesta, traffic laws are strictly enforced for everyone’s safety. Obey all of the traffic laws. Do not speed.


TIP: Pace yourself. The “Dawn Patrol” is very early for most of us and the “Mass Ascensions” last for two hours or more. It’s all very exciting, which in itself can be exhausting. Plan to go take a rest after activity.


TIP: Keep yourself hydrated at all times – keep bottled water with you in your car and, perhaps, bring some to the balloon field site. At high altitudes, people often do not feel thirsty even when they are becoming dehydrated.


TIP: People are affected more by alcohol and tobacco at this altitude – be careful.


TIP: Remember to note the location of your car. The Balloon Fiesta is no different from a visit to a theme park – finding your car can be difficult, especially at night.


TIP: If you are with others, before you go onto the field agree on a place and time to meet. Walkie-talkies or cell phones are also very handy items; just remember, the balloons have noisy propane heaters, so hearing can be difficult.


TIP: Children should have good identification and written instructions for finding you should they become lost. The Fiesta Park is a very safe environment with lots of personnel to help, but they need your cooperation.


TIP: The balloon field can be quite chilly in the early morning (around 40°F warming up to about 70°F by noon) – plan to wear a jacket that you can remove later on. If you have one, a backpack can be a very good tool so you don’t have to carry everything around by hand.


TIP: Bring your camera, lots and lots of film, extra memory cards and spare batteries. (See: “Tips for Photographing the Balloon Fiesta”)


TIP: Lawn Chairs are allowed. (A limited number of picnic tables are available).


TIP: No pets (except handicap assistance animals) are permitted.


TIP: The New Mexico sky is clear blue and very bright– sun glasses are a good idea.
Bring sunscreen to put on after the sun is up. The high altitude puts you at higher risk for sunburn


TIP: Carry a flashlight before dawn and after dark for safety. This is especially helpful while walking on the Fiesta Field (keeps you from stepping on people, balloons, etc.).


TIP: When you are on the field be very careful where you step. The balloons are laid out on the field prior to being inflated and it’s easy to tear a balloon on the ground. Take special care not to step on a balloon or any of the other equipment.


TIP: Smoking is forbidden on the balloon field itself. It’s also extremely dangerous because of the damage that a small ash can cause to the nylon balloons and the possibility of igniting some of the highly combustible fuel used to heat the balloon’s air – smoke only in designated areas.


TIP: Look out for traffic. There are vehicles on both the launch field and on the midway; chase crews must leave when their balloon is launched, and service vehicles as well as emergency vehicles must have room to operate.


TIP: The Porta-Potties are easily available, but they are just like portable restrooms everywhere – not so good as home. Plan ahead: Go before you leave for the show.


TIP: ATMs are located at both the north and south ends of Main Street.