The main balloon festival in New Mexico – the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta – is held every year in early October , typically over nine days during the first full week of the month.

2026 dates (next confirmed)

  • For 2026, the official dates are October 3–11, 2026.
  • The event runs across two weekends, with morning and evening sessions most days.

Typical yearly timing

Even if you are looking beyond 2026:

  • The fiesta is a nine‑day event in the first full week of October each year.
  • Saturdays and Sundays usually feature the big “mass ascension” launches right after sunrise.

Quick planning notes

  • Location: Balloon Fiesta Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
  • Tickets: Sold for both morning and evening sessions, and can be bought in advance through the official Balloon Fiesta site.
  • Lodging: Hotels and rentals often book out many months ahead for those October dates.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.