Balloon Fiesta 2008

Every year for the first two weekends of October, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta graces our skies. Balloonists from all over the world come here to enjoy the unique winds, known as the Albuquerque Box, where during the cool autumn morning winds near the ground are southerly but winds at slightly higher elevation blow to the north. This allows for talented balloonists to take off and land near the same spot. The festival runs for 9 days, and the balloons are visible form all over the city during the mornings.


David's parents came down and we went to the Mass Ascension early Saturday, where over 300 balloons launch from the park in a hectic 3 hour time period. It is really a great experience (aside from the leaving for the park at 4:30 am) - the bustling activity as balloon crews unfurl balloons, test equipment, fill the balloons, pull ropes, and launch - in continual waves all over the huge park. The best part you can just walk around in the middle of all this mayhem!



It was gorgeous weather, and a great morning all around. We headed home for breakfast and then a little post excitement nap.

As a special note, I just want to point out a feature of one of our favorite balloons "Airabelle" the Creamland Dairy balloon that we have never noticed before. Very anatomically correct for a giant 3 story inflatalbe balloon.