Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta : TOP 10 TIPS FROM A LOCAL

[@SwiftyTravels]

4:30 is not early enough- you’d better leave by 4am or 330- the traffic is terrible! And note masks are no longer required.

[@joeschmo9953]

Especially if you are commuting from LA.

[@SwiftyTravels]

😂😂😂

[@leegodfrey8719]

Facts

[@reynameneses6078]

😊

[@adanaryjacques7776]

I was born in 1972 and so this trip (my first vacation post-pandemic) was the highlight of my year, celebrating my own 50th birthday.!! I learned about it when I was in my 20s and just made it happen. Finally and WOW, it was so worth it. I wish I'd seen this video before our trip! Though informative and exciting, thankfully, locals were friendly and gave us the same tips. We were not able to get there before the last weekend and so we really risked not getting to see the show due to rain. So planning for several days is important. Get up early for the morning sessions! Yes 3:30 early. Starbucks opens at 4am during Fiesta who knew? Yes it's COLD, we're from Houston, Texas so a light windy 42° and we're freezing! Once the sun comes out you can peel away the layers. Sunblock is a good idea. Balloon rides are available to the public pre festival and post festival. I had been really curious, but byy the time I figured it out it was too late to book. This won't be my last so I'll do it next time. Also check out the train. You pay $2 to Santa fe it's an all day pass to shop, eat, visit museums and historic chapels! Thank you, I loved your video, it brought back the memories and it was just a few weeks ago, lol. 🙏🏼💯

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thank you so much! And thank goodness you had a great time and happy birthday! The weather was rough this year!

[@thatswhatshegrows]

Thank you, I’m coming this year for my first time from Canada 🇨🇦

[@SwiftyTravels]

Have a great time it looks like it’s gonna be pretty warm this year!!

[@jandkgostisha9876]

@@SwiftyTravels Your video is so helpful. We will be there next week during the week. Thinking we don't need to be as bundled up as some years.... Is the traffic a little lighter during the week versus the weekends by any chance??? We are driving in on Wednesday and doing park n ride Thursday and Friday.

[@SwiftyTravels]

@@jandkgostisha9876 yes it is a bit warmer this read for sure. Traffic won’t be as bad during the week either. Park and ride is best. Enjoy the fiesta!!!

[@karlaveronica3943]

I’m doing some research for the balloon fiesta and this video is really helpful. It will be my very first year and had no idea about all the details. I’ll be traveling from Northern California and I’m soooo excited!!

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks so much for the feedback! I hope you enjoy!!!

[@blissdad13]

How was it. Thinking about doing this with my kid.

[@RomansFree]

Are u ok

[@BabyRQ]

Definitely one of my dreams. Can’t wait to go on one of those. 🥰

[@SwiftyTravels]

it is a unique experence for sure!

[@rosaiselapena176]

Thank you for your advice ❤

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks for watching!

[@SomeplaceOrAnother]

This sounds amazing 🤩 great tips 👍 I would like to go sometime 😃 I did manage to go to a local balloon glow in St Louis, future video 👍

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks so much for checking it out! I do hope you can make it one of these years- it is so amazing! I’ll look out for your St Louis glow video! 👍😀

[@seantomlinson3320]

Thanks. Looking forward to it with my boys, wife, and mom this year.

[@SwiftyTravels]

Have a great time!!

[@FieldofVisions]

Wow soooo many balloons. Definitely will need to leave early. Bet it’s a photographers dream 🤗

[@SwiftyTravels]

This is such a beautiful and exciting event! Thanks for stopping by!

[@todayissomeday]

Thanks for the tips! I am sharing the video in our newsletter tomorrow! We are so excited to finally attend.

[@SwiftyTravels]

Awesome!! So glad I could help! If you have any other questions, let me know!!!

[@Innerrelief]

Excellent! Really interesting! Thank you for sharing! Greetings! 😍👍🏼

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@flowngrowchannel3762]

Such a helpfull tips thanks for sharing and the fiesta balloon so colorfull and fantastic new friend here.

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks so much for stopping by!!

[@MrDisplaypilot]

I am an International Pilot who is lucky enough to attend. Look out for my UK Flag Balloon Team GB. Great video well presented. Follow this advice its Golden

[@SwiftyTravels]

Nice! I’ll be looking for you!!

[@thetravellingwelshman]

Wow that really is such a beautiful site! That's definitely worth the effort to go and see! 😁🙌🏻

[@SwiftyTravels]

It's truly an amazing sight!!

[@BandofBrothersSpike]

Thank you!!!! Planning for the next one.

[@SwiftyTravels]

You're so welcome!

[@luismolina2987]

Beautiful video nice information for this ballon fiesta and Albuquerque thank you Swifty Travel.

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks for watching!

[@romanandfizah]

Super creative content guys.So blessed to watched and great effort . New subscribers from Malaysia & France 😊

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thank you so much 🤗 I appreciate you stopping by!

[@suddendallas]

Thank you for the tips, just moved to New Mexico from Florida and I'm excited about the balloons!

[@SwiftyTravels]

Welcome to New Mexico!!! Balloon Fiesta time is the best time of year here!!! :-)

[@michaelh2716]

My wife & I will be there Oct 7-10!!! Can’t wait!!!

[@SwiftyTravels]

Enjoy!! Be sure and go to the soonest event you can I hear the winds are coming later in the weekend

[@GladysandKenny]

Omg, I (Gladys) love hot air balloon. Kenny proposed to me in a hot air balloon. I would love to see and experience this. Great tips.

[@SwiftyTravels]

how romantic!!! Proposal in the hot air balloon!!! That's amazing, you must come out sometime!!!

[@travelwithsuveen6122]

Very useful ideas ....and fantastic place to explore ....keep it up and stay connected ...👍😎🤗

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thank you so much 😊

[@normamccafferty3053]

Helpful info. Thanks! We hope to attend. :)

[@SwiftyTravels]

great! I hope you enjoy!

[@adventureawaits5003]

That would be fun nice video for people heading there.

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thank you! I thought I'd try to put something together for folks attending for their first time! :-)

[@ManzanoManATVAdventures]

I totally agree with you! Great advice on accessing the balloon fiestas. I am looking forward to watching it this year.

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks! I'm looking forward to the fiesta as well!

[@jogjacitytour]

Informasi menarik ❤

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks for watching!

[@gosiarhomecooking5123]

Hello dear friend, great advice , thank You for sharing:)

[@SwiftyTravels]

You are so welcome! Have a great day!

[@ConsidertheWonders]

Passing through Albuquerque now! Saw a couple of balloons in the air for the holiday. Also saw some coming down from Santa Fe. Guess they were getting prepped 🙌🏼🤙

[@SwiftyTravels]

Nice! We usually have a few balloons flying around every morning. I hope you can make it to the fiesta one of these days!! Safe travels!

[@CactusAtlas]

Always thought it would be fun to see the balloons. Hopefully some day and we can use these tips! They're definitely pushing the incentive to not clog up the area with that parking pass. Can't see why anyone wouldn't take advantage of that.

[@SwiftyTravels]

I hope you make it out one of these days!

[@lindabradford9591]

We were going to go but the sessions were confusing. We went to one in a town near us and it was so amazing to see.

[@bfoz]

Nice insight. I'm sure it will be very enjoyable.

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks so much!

[@abdulmateen2205]

great tips, thanks

[@SwiftyTravels]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ColoradoMartini]

I have always wanted to go this. I just got back from Santa Fe. We are hoping to retire there. Good advice on getting there early.

[@SwiftyTravels]

awesome! Santa Fe is so beautiful! The weather here in New Mexico is perfect!!! Thanks for stopping by and watching!

[@blissdad13]

Great video. Thank you

[@SwiftyTravels]

You are welcome! Thanks so much for watching!

[@susanmartinriecks1843]

Thank you, this was very helpful! We are coming for the first time, and are so excited!!

[@SwiftyTravels]

So glad I could help! If you have any other questions- let me know!!!😀😀👍

[@efrenmones4126]

Thank you

[@CelticPaths4k]

Thank you very much for these useful tips, it seems a really original and interesting festival to know 👍

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks for watching! Maybe you can visit someday!!

[@BibleStoriesandBeyond]

Wonderful ✨ Thank you for sharing.. 🙏

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thank you too!

[@AleSalvino]

Love these tips and setup. Congrats on the 500 subs, super well deserved and I'm sure you'll keep growing as your videos are amazing! :)

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks so much!! Have a great week!!

[@MikeandStephTravels]

This looks epic. Great vid, great tips - see you at the next balloon fiesta!

[@SwiftyTravels]

Excellent!! Thanks so much!!

[@RiyaMehandipassion]

Thanks for sharing

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks so much for watching!!

[@Covermeinsunshine344]

Great video thanks 🙏🏿

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks so much!! I hope it was helpful!!

[@TooMuchLuggage]

Great tips. We been there few time but not in October. But this year we will go in the balloons in Cappadocia. Thank you for sharing 👍

[@SwiftyTravels]

Nice! I hope to make it to Cappadocia one day!

[@TooMuchLuggage]

@@SwiftyTravels we will be in Cappadocia in about a week. Can’t wait

[@tropical594]

❤👌

[@SwiftyTravels]

thank you!

[@JourneywithJenandDrew]

We have never been to a balloon festival but its on our list :) Great tips - we feel prepared for next year!

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks for watching! I hope you can make it out here for the fiesta soon!

[@adanaryjacques7776]

#bucketlist ✅️ do it!!

[@ArvinTravels]

Thanks for the tips!!

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks so much for watching! You're welcome!

[@joanbjornas682]

Thanks for the info

[@SwiftyTravels]

You’re welcome!

[@trvlnthru]

We have heard of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta and always thought it would be cool to attend in person. It looks beautiful. I didn't know about the Balloon Glow evening event. That sounds amazing. We are going to make plans to go one year to see this in person. So thanks for these tips!

[@SwiftyTravels]

It is definitely something worth seeing for sure!

[@AnnaTravels]

awesome guide!

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks so much!!

[@Roadmap2Adventures]

Great tips! This is such a helpful video 👏

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks so much!!!

[@philipclarkli]

Thanks for this. A terrific resource as I get ready for my first Balloon Fiesta this October. Wondering what your thoughts about the 'premium options' are: Gondola Club, and Chasers' Club onsite and the Anderson Abruzzo Museum meal/viewing location

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks! If you can afford it the museum meal/viewing sounds awesome! I’ve never done any of these options. The chaser club just has a nice area sectioned off where you can sit. The park is a big open field and it gets really really crowded.

[@MrMrsMemories]

Nice informative video 👍

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thank you!

[@granteenquitheal6609]

NOW I GOTTA TRY THIS!!!

[@mrvmax7078]

nice kaibigan watching po God bless

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks!

[@SharingtheRoad]

We'll have to make it there at some point! Riding in a hot air balloon is on our things we want to do list!

[@SwiftyTravels]

yes! This is a must for you too!! Just so you know, balloon rides are available in Albuquerque year round with a company called Rainbow Ryders, but during the balloon fiesta is extra special!!

[@daveanddianethrowingcautio5707]

Hi, New subscriber here #509. We are in Albuquerque now, hanging out for a few days. Thanks for the tips even though we won't be here for this years festival. We ARE doing the tram today however.

[@SwiftyTravels]

Excellent!! I recommend hiking to the Kiwanis cabin from the tram then stopping to eat at the restaurant up there. You hike north from the tram along the crest then there will be a sign to lead you to the cabin. The views are incredible!! Enjoy and thanks so much for stopping by! I hope the air quality is good for you today!!

[@daveanddianethrowingcautio5707]

@@SwiftyTravels Thanks for the tip, the hike to the Kiwanis cabin was very enjoyable.

[@conniebennett995]

Great info. What if you are driving an RV? Can you watch from your camp site? Suggestions please. Thanks

[@SwiftyTravels]

Yes, absolutely- the RV parks near the balloon fiesta have balloons flying all around! The sites aren't cheap, but it's great to be so close!

[@MountainsPassionPetrDakota]

Great advices and WOW ! I have never seen too many balloons together though...and it's so colourful there ! Useful video 👍

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thank you! Cheers! The fiesta has about 600 balloons it's amazing!!

[@LivingtheSilverLife]

This is awesome information. We are staying on grounds in the VIP West so we're so excited to be so close. These were some great tips. I haven't downloaded the app yet, so I'll get that loaded and bring lots of warm clothes, and go with Xmas.

[@SwiftyTravels]

Oh you are going!!! Awesome! So glad I could help!!

[@LivingtheSilverLife]

We were supposed to go last year, and they just rolled our reservation over.

[@SwiftyTravels]

Nice! If you have any other questions, feel free to ask! Its such a beautiful time of year here!!😍😍

[@LivingtheSilverLife]

We may take you up on that. 😂😂

[@josephmendoza3291]

Thank you for sharing! Great advice! Would anyone happen to know if wagons/strollers are allowed, we will be doing a park&ride from Hoffmantown church.

[@SwiftyTravels]

I’m not 100% sure but I believe strollers would be fine. Not sure about a wagon since you can’t fold it up on the bus. The balloon fiesta field is crowded and bumpy (grass) so not ideal stroller conditions but it can be done. Thanks so much for watching and enjoy!!!😀😀

[@gshanson1]

Thank you for the excellent tips. We are coming the first time and really excited. Question, can you purchase a ride in the balloon during the Fiesta. Ps. Can't wait to try a breakfast burrito and make it Christmas!

[@SwiftyTravels]

Excellent! I’m really not sure if you can purchase a ride there on the spot. It seems that everything sells out ahead of time these days. If it’s real important to you I would try to reserve it in advance. There is a section on the balloonfiesta.com website about Balloon rides with Rainbow Ryders - I hope you enjoy!!!

[@LenLindsay]

Lisa - did you know that there will be an Annular Solar Eclipse during the 2023 Fiesta? Peak time is 10:35am Saturday October 14.

[@SwiftyTravels]

Wow! I didn’t know this! Spectacular!!

[@leegodfrey8719]

Pilot approved!

[@SwiftyTravels]

Yes! Thats great! 😀👍

[@davearchbell9921]

Very informative. I was planning to attend this year. Does the event sellout?

[@SwiftyTravels]

I don't believe it ever sells out, but if you don't get there early enough, you can get stuck in traffic and may not get to the park in time. If you come on a Sat or Sunday, especially opening weekend, plan on rolling into the parking lot early in the 5am hour to ensure you get in in time. And, the dawn patrol at 6am is gorgeous! :-)

[@davearchbell9921]

@@SwiftyTravels Thanks. I was planning mid week. Saturday the 14th will be crazy as there is an eclipse.

[@SwiftyTravels]

@@davearchbell9921 yes! You should have no problem mid week. Enjoy!!

[@infinitepaths]

Looks like a great event. I will have to add to my US road trip (when I can finally do it 😆). What else would you recommend to do in Albuquerque and the surrounding area btw?

[@SwiftyTravels]

Thanks! It’s an amazing event!! Albuquerque has a lot to offer- We have a tram that goes up the mountain to Sandia peak, and amazing old town and ancient petroglyphs sites to name a few!

[@EduardoEliasCanela]

Definitely stop in Santa Fe and visit the miraculous staircase. If you have a chance visit the hot springs and Elephant Butte lake in TorC, NM. Also, the caverns in Carlsbad and nearby is Roswell where all the alien stuff is 👍🏽 ..Taos has a ski resort, Cloudcroft and Ruidoso are beautiful towns as well.

[@eadt12]

For park and ride I would add to this.... be patient.... busses are harder to maneuver then the cars and have to deal with the traffic still because people don't know how to follow directions where it says busses only... also tip those bus drivers even if it is a dollar.... they really appreciate especially because it does take a lot to go back and forth.... park and ride is also only available on certain days

[@SwiftyTravels]

Great tips- thanks!!

[@sephoralira0111]

Thank you so much for sharing! I’m heading over there for the first time and super excited. Quick question though, do they allow us to bring in food, snacks, drinks etc?

[@SwiftyTravels]

I’m honestly not sure, I don’t remember restrictions on outside food or drink. I thought I read there might be metal detectors this year, so things might have changed.

[@brysonrodden5112]

1.especially the first few days leave extra early. Traffic is usually the worst on the first day 2. It is definitely cold in the morning but make sure you can easily remove layers as it is already warm by breakfast 3. Anything can happen 😂 in 2019 the first day we had fog for the first time in Balloon fiesta history. But high winds aloft and possible thunderstorms in the area can affect the flight so always allow for preferably at least 2 or 3 days. Here in Oklahoma we have 3 day events and we usually only get one or two good days 5. We usually at least try and inflate and stand up on the field if we are not able to fly, so if balloons come out (not just fly) you cannot reuse the tickets I personally prefer the north end of the field, it is much less crowded that the south end. Also most pilots love to talk to people and answer any questions you might have I have been going with my dad since I was 4 weeks old and I am 20 now. We have the black and yellow balloon at the very bottom of the screen at the balloon museum at 0:33 it is somewhat similar to the red and yellow balloon in the same clip. Great video 👍

[@SwiftyTravels]

awesome! Thanks for the additional tips! Much appreciated!!!

[@tovataller7035]

If the weather does not allow balloons to take off, do I get to use the ticket for the following day? We will only be there 2 days. Are there morning and afternoon sessions? Which one would you recommend?

[@vt399]

Need your advice for seniors to visit the fiesta. (Fly to Albuquerque. No rental car. Want to take PARK & RIDE bus). Or just stay and view the balloons from hotels/motels is OK. Thanks.

[@SwiftyTravels]

I think park & ride is the best option for you. You have to buy park and ride tickets in advance. I don’t think there are any hotels with excellent views except maybe sandia casino or maybe marriott pyramid. The balloons don’t fly all over town like they used to they stay pretty close to the park because there’s not as many places to land.

[@jamesklucky777]

probably not an easy question? I love the information in your video, thank you. My mom turns 90 but cannot bring her for long walks. I am wondering if there are any places above the festival or near the festival where you can see the views for someone who cannot come and do heavy work or walking at this point. Any ideas would be appreciated.

[@SwiftyTravels]

Let's see, you could drive in and park if you get there early enough you could get a really close spot- or if they have a handicap sticker you could park in the super close handicap area and watch from the car or go in that entrance the North side and just stay close to the entrance for a nice view (and you could bring a chair). There doesn't seem to be any other close places since they have the roads closed off from each direction all around and it kind of depends which way the wind is blowing. I found a nice over look, at the very North end of the city. Take Wyoming or Louisiana all the way to the end as far North as it will go and it's a nice place to park and see the balloons if you are on the East side of town. Maybe also from the Sandia casino parking lot?? Just some ideas

[@jamesklucky777]

@@SwiftyTravels you are just full of amazing!!!!!! thank you we have to be in kind of controlled situation with the bathroom and stamina, etc. I like the overlook idea for sure I will look into the casino as well. So nice of you! thanks

[@dlop3780]

When dressing warm make sure to dress in layers. More shirts.

[@SwiftyTravels]

True! It warms up fast when the sun comes out!

[@cindimoya1234]

Awesome tips! I'm going this year and wondering 2 things: 1. Can you see balloons from Sandia hotel or are there places you recommend as I'll be bringing elderly relative? 2. Do you recommend the Gondola Club, Chaser's Club or Concierge since bringing someone who can't walk far? Thanks a million!!

[@SwiftyTravels]

The Sandia hotel is a great place to stay, very conveniently located to the park. You would only be able to see the balloons from your room if you had windows facing west, and they will be at a distance but should be beautiful! I have never paid for Chasers club or Gondolal club but I would recommend if you are bringing someone who is elderly if they can't walk far. The park gets crazy crowded, so these areas will provide a comfortable place to be away from the crowds. The longest walk is from the parking area, so be sure to arrive early and you should be able to drop them off at the entrance gate if you don't have a handicap pass.

[@cindimoya1234]

@@SwiftyTravels Thank you!

[@Joshuastem5622]

How do the morning/ evening sessions work? If I buy a ticket for the morning session, can I stay inside the park until evening, or do they kick everyone out in between sessions? Also, how would park and ride work if I want to attend both morning and evening sessions in 1 day?

[@SwiftyTravels]

I don't believe they would kick you out if you really wanted to stick around all day. - but it would be a long day. I've never personally done it, but if you stayed inside the balloon fiesta park all day, I don't think you would have to pay for the evening session.

[@SimoneClark2U]

Can anyone come? I would love to come.

[@wendylaski144]

Do they have the balloon glow every night? Thank you

[@SwiftyTravels]

No, not every night. Saturday and Sunday on the first weekend and Thursday, Friday, Saturday of the 2nd weekend

[@kariciia1]

What happens if we are planning to set up our RV for 10/11/24, just for 1 day. if its windy and the event cancels that day,do we still get to get on forthw nextt day?

[@SwiftyTravels]

Your ticket to the event can be reused but I’m sure they won’t extend your RV reservation because they are always sold out for the entire week. But.. I don’t know the RV reservation terms and conditions

[@MelissaGarza]

I heard you mentioned about people bringing blankets to keep warm, but do people bring blankets and towels to sit down to watch. I can image being on feet all day long may cause some issues. What do you suggest? It there places with some seating?

[@SwiftyTravels]

so the main event is largely over by 8:30-9 in the morning. If you arrive super early there are some picnic areas, but during the height of the fiesta when the balloons are taking off in masses, there are so many people, you would not be able to enjoy from a blanket. (The grass may be wet as well). More people were out sitting in the grass for the evening balloon glow events.

[@christinaestrada4103]

Thank you so much for sharing! We will be traveling from Kansas. Are we able to actually ride the balloons?

[@SwiftyTravels]

Excellent! Rainbow Ryders offers balloon rides. Go to balloonfiesta.com and selects tickets & reservations / balloon rides

[@janetdungan2878]

i plan on staying at marriott pyramid nearby and leaving my car and taking a shuttle. so will i need to buy park and ride or will the hotel have a shuttle to drop me off at the field?

[@SwiftyTravels]

I doubt the hotel will have a shuttle to the balloon fiesta or to the park and ride locations. From the hotel it would be closer to drive to the balloon park than to drive to the park and ride spots. But- park and ride will drop you off right at the entrance. When you drive it can be a long walk to the park. Here are the locations balloonfiesta.com/Park-Ride check with the hotel but I would be really surprised if they offered any type of shuttle service

[@lovelynavi95]

are there balloon rides too we can take during the festival? and how much would they cost (any idea)?

[@SwiftyTravels]

yes you can ride baloons at the fiesta, they are given by a company called Rainbow Ryders, I would expect it to be expensive and I'm pretty sure you have to make reservations ahead of time. balloonfiesta.com/Balloon-Rides

[@lovelynavi95]

@@SwiftyTravels thanks for the info

[@Pinky121971]

Hello We intend to drive to Albuquerque in a small Class B RV, to experience the Festival 2days. Can you recommend a spot near the event for us to Overnight stay? Thanks

[@SwiftyTravels]

I’m not experienced with RVs so I’m not sure what you had in mind . There is a large rv park by the balloon fiesta field but it is likely sold out by now. I’m not sure I can recommend a place but if you have some in mind you can send me the info and I’ll tell you of they are good areas to stay. Good luck!

[@maribelguerrero8046]

Thank you for the information! I will be attending…about the traffic. Can I get an Uber or is this only for RV’s?

[@SwiftyTravels]

Hi there! Thanks for watching! The traffic situation applies to anyone coming/going from the park. You can uber there as well, just leave early as the uber driver will be stuck in traffic just like everyone else if you arrive late. I'm not sure if they have a separate entrance for Uber drivers. Enjoy! and thanks so much for watching!

[@maribelguerrero8046]

@@SwiftyTravels thank you 😊 you’re the best!

[@roscotakeson1128]

Going this year (2022). Taking the 4:00 AM Park n ride. Do they have coffee at 4:30?

[@SwiftyTravels]

I believe they do! There are plenty of people there that early. Enjoy!!!

[@romiemiller7876]

Funny, but red is milder than green. If hot food bothers you, get the red chili, not green. If it doesn't bother you, get green. Both is good!

[@SwiftyTravels]

Yes! I prefer red but I can't resist to try them both every time!!! :-)

[@LenLindsay]

Lisa - would I be able to use an all terrain rollator walker to get around or are the crowds just too large for this? Would the Concierge Service be recommended instead? Pricey but the driver would know where everything is and could get us from place to place relatively quickly?

[@SwiftyTravels]

The biggest challenge is walking into the park from the parking lot- if you get there a little late you have to park really far away. If you have a handicap sticker, that would make it easiest. - or do park and ride. Once you are in the park, you are not really missing much if you are in one part of the park or the other. You could walk in- but there would likely not be anywhere to sit. The balloons are in a big grassy field and it gets muddy. Once the balloons start going up it would be really hard to walk in that crowd with the walker, but you could easily stay around the outside of the field and see all the balloons flying all around you. If you can afford it the conceirge service might be really nice to go around in a golf cart! I've never experienced the VIP service!

[@LenLindsay]

@@SwiftyTravels Lisa ... I think I will get tickets for the Concierge service on Thursday morning. Their FAQ says that only six are available though - so I better get my tickets first thing when ticket sales open tomorrow (April 7) ... are ticket sales done online or by phone (or both, and is one preferable?) Thanks again for your wonderful help!

[@karenwakamoto3447]

Are there paved walkways so I can push my dad in his wheelchair around the fiesta?

[@SwiftyTravels]

There are. There is a paved road around the grassy field. On Saturday/ Sundays it can get really crowded and would be a little hard to navigate but its doable

[@eo6394]

Hi - Thanks for the video. I will be attending this year. Are kids under 12 free?

[@SwiftyTravels]

Yes!

[@eo6394]

@@SwiftyTravels awesome. We’re staying at the Hyatt place by the airport. Do you think taking an Uber is a good idea ? We don’t plan to drive.

[@SwiftyTravels]

@@eo6394 it should be fine but leave super super early. I would expect the uber rates to be expensive due to demand

[@eo6394]

@@SwiftyTravels got it. Thanks again

[@eileenthai7741]

Can you ride the balloons?

[@SwiftyTravels]

you can get rides, but it has to be arranged before hand. The company that gives balloon rides is called Rainbow Ryders. You can also find out more information at balloonfiesta.com

[@djjosie27]

Need information on how to reserve my balloon ride prior to arrival.

[@SwiftyTravels]

Hi! At the website balloonfiesta.com under tickets and reservations there is a section on balloon rides. Reservations are made with rainbow ryders. Info is on that page

[@rnguyen2516]

What is the restroom situation at the festival? Is it port-o-potties? Is this something appropriate for young children, such as six or eight year olds? Do people bring captain’s chairs? Thank you!

[@SwiftyTravels]

Lots and lots of porta potties! Its great for kids! 6-8 years is perfect! Some people bring chairs but most just walk around that park its beat to walk under the balloons as they are taking off

[@yaniraescolero1096]

Hello, I wanted to ask is the mass ascension is the same on the 1st initial launch as the mass ascension on the following weekend?

[@SwiftyTravels]

Yes- it is the same on both weekends. I hope you can make it!!

[@daniachavarria9973]

what about pets in this festival? Any recommendations?

[@SwiftyTravels]

No pets but trained service animals are allowed. It’s usually cool weather in the mornings during that time in October if you needed to leave an animal in the car with the windows cracked it would probably be fine

[@AZRockRunner]

There is no Park and Ride for Mon-Wed. Where is the best place to park my car, then ride a bike or Uber to the Fiesta?

[@SwiftyTravels]

Good point about the park and ride schedule. I’m not sure about other places to park around town. You could uber from where you are staying. Here is a great resource for bike maps www.cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/recreation/bike/bicycling

[@cynthiannamartinez5048]

Can you help with travel plans it will be our first time attending

[@SwiftyTravels]

I’d be more than happy to answer any questions you have or give recommendations- you can find me on Facebook or Instagram! 😀👍

[@cynthiannamartinez5048]

Do you know if anyone will rent a RV during the festival for us to stay in just me and my husband he doesn't want to stay in a hotel due to covid ? Or a cabin would be nice as well . Thanks for responding

[@SwiftyTravels]

I don't know anyone who rents their RVs. I do know that the RV sites around the balloon fiesta sell out way in advance. There are companies like Cruise America you could check out, you might be able to rent one.

[@ermiechavez4200]

Oh God here it comes ! The traffic jams, driving restrictions ! Just about the entire police force will be there, expensive, everything expensive !!!

[@SwiftyTravels]

I hear ya!

[@caitlinramsey9786]

What are your thoughts on young children attending? We will be out in NM this year and next and he will be 2/3 depending. I wonder because you said a lot of walking. Do we bring a carrier for him, are there stroller areas?? Thank you!!

[@SwiftyTravels]

Absolutely bring your young kids! They love it! A carrier type setup would be better than a stroller - some people bring wagons. The field gets very crowded so its hard to wheel around a stroller or wagon. I do have some videos on my channel from the event this past year if you want to take a look. Park and ride might be the best option since it would drop you off at the front. The longest walk could be from the parking space! The kids will love it!!!

[@SwiftyTravels]

I don’t remember seeing any type of stroller area

[@davidlawson4281]

Wondering about lodging availability!

[@SwiftyTravels]

I know that hotels sell out way in advance the week of the balloon fiesta- same with the RV park. There still may be Airbnb’s available.

[@davidlawson4281]

@@SwiftyTravels Thanks. May need to wait until next year

[@cinthiamartinez2020]

What day is special shape rodeo on ?

[@SwiftyTravels]

The special shapes rodeo is on Thursday and Friday, October 7 and 8th

[@denytraaromero5448]

How much is it for a balloon ride?

[@SwiftyTravels]

I’ve never gone on a balloon ride and the website doesn’t have published prices but you can contact them. Info here: www.balloonfiesta.com/balloon-rides

[@CookbookBob]

Hi Lisa, I'm meeting family at the balloon fiesta this year (2022). They have an RV with reservations in the South lot. I'm looking for a place to park my car for four days. (9/30-10/4). Do you have any suggestions?

[@SwiftyTravels]

Any possibility of parking at the RV park? Unfortunately ABQ is known for crime so I would not be comfortable leaving it parked out somewhere in town for four days. There is cheap parking at the airport I25&Sunport road. If you want in town suggestions near by, sent me a private message on Facebook or Instagram or email

[@CookbookBob]

@@SwiftyTravels I think I'll leave it at a park and ride at the airport then grab an Uber to the festival.

[@rondaherbez8909]

What about VIP?

[@SwiftyTravels]

I have never attended as a VIP- if you can afford it - it would be worth it ad they have a separate comfortable area where you can watch the balloons

[@delphinehong2175]

What is the difference between the Mass Ascension and weekday ascension? I might only be able to make it during the weekdays. Do u think it is still worthwhile to go?

[@SwiftyTravels]

If you can only make a weekday- yes still go. The difference is the quantity of balloons. The Sat/Sun ‘mass ascension’ will have the largest amount of balloons in the air- but there are lots of balloons every day of the fiesta. If you can choose your weekday I would pick Thursday- they will have the most special shape balloons that is fun to see but expect a lot of kids.

[@delphinehong2175]

@@SwiftyTravels thanks for the advise! Are the special shape balloons grounded or do they fly too?

[@delphinehong2175]

Sorry for asking so many questions! Cause we are trying to get the best day to go! Both Thursday and Friday are special shapes am I right? Really appreciate your advise especially from a local!

[@SwiftyTravels]

@@delphinehong2175 yes! Both of those days would be the best weekday to go

[@SwiftyTravels]

@@delphinehong2175 oh yes they fly as long as the weather is good. Its awesome