Opening Ceremonies & Mass Ascension
Rise bright and early to witness the Opening Ceremonies, which are followed by a grand �mass ascension,� as hundreds of balloons � some vibrant, some whimsical � fill the skies over the grounds. This is a launch of all the participating balloons.

Guided sightseeing tour of Albuquerque
Established as a colonial farming village in 1706, Albuquerque�s Old Town neighborhood still bears the mark of its Spanish founders. Through narrow brick pathways to Spanish-style plazas and 18th-century adobe architecture, you�ll explore the heritage of Albuquerque�s varied past, guided by a local expert on the region�s history and culture.


Bandelier National Monument
The ancestors of modern Pueblo people built thriving communities in the area called Bandelier about 600 years ago. Several thousand Ancestral Pueblo dwellings are found among the pink mesas and its sheer-walled canyons.

Balloon Glow at the Balloon Festival
Enjoy the Balloon Glow, a signature Fiesta event that�s guaranteed to set the night sky ablaze. Just before dusk, nearly 500 balloons are tethered over the fiesta grounds. In unison, the pilots set their burners aglow, creating a luminous, magical display, followed by a spectacular fireworks show. It�s a pyrotechnical display you�ll not soon forget.



Santa Fe Walking Tour
We�ll head north along the picturesque Jemez Mountains to Santa Fe, the oldest capital city in the United States. We tour one of the wonders of Santa Fe�s historic district, Loretto Chapel. Constructed in 1873, this striking gothic chapel houses the Miraculous Staircase, a marvel of architectural ingenuity that some claim was designed and built by St. Joseph himself!
For the shoppers, Santa Fe is a dream come true. Governor�s Plaza is home to countless shops and artists studios.


Optional Balloon Ride
Optional Balloon Rides may be available