Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

[DES]

The weather hasn't been great this year -- wind & some rain. A few events were cancelled. I've posted a few photos from past years for those who are curious about the week's activities.

The mass ascension (most mornings)

High Flyer

A cartoon character

Over the mesa

Getting ready for the balloon glow with special shapes

 

[AlanLichty]

Wow - what a spectacle. I love the isolated cartoon character - that's almost a surreal shot. I'd love to see this event sometime.

 

[JimFox]

I should have went this year. I have been wanting to go for years, but it's timed at the same time that I go to the Upper Midwest for fall colors. But those colors were a bust. Fortunately I got the Northern Lights one night, so it made up for it.

I like your selection. That mass ascension is amazing. And you really nailed it with the moon.

If I ever make it down there for it, I will pick your brain for tips.

 

[Jameel Hyder]

Interesting collection of colors and shapes of these balloons. Nice images.

 

[DES]

The first time we went to the balloon fiesta, there were only a few balloons -- it's turned into an international event now. The morning mass ascension can be a chore with a long line of vehicles starting at 5am to enter the field. I've found some vantage points that seem to work well over the years. The last shot here is good, I think, to show the massive size of the balloons next to the crowds. Thanks for looking.

Darrell