The best time to attend Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta in 2026 is October 3 to 11, 2026.
Timing status: Timing verification pending.
Last verified: 2026-07-28.
Mass ascension · October 3 to 11, 2026
Some 500 hot air balloons lift off together at dawn over the high desert, the largest gathering of balloons on earth.
Balloons: ~500
Where it is visible: Albuquerque, USA
Hotels sell out months ahead and dawn sessions mean pre-5am arrivals. Weather can scrub a launch.
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta 2026: October 3 to 11, 2026.
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