Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta: Evening Activities

After an early morning with a disappointing outcome due to the low clouds, and an afternoon of hiking (ok I'll admit I took a nap while the others hiked), the afternoon activities started up.  First up, Team Fastrax Skydiving - where the divers launch out of aircraft, gliding over the field. The leader flies the flag and his teammates follow with flares on their feet.  They landed on the field where all the activities were to start.

 

There were Native American dancers - they were all pretty young - great to see this beautiful tradition carried on.

And, of course there is FOOD.  We tried to stick to prepping and eating at the RV, but we did try the famous Breakfast Burritos.  In the morning - there are lines of at least 30 in front of each stand - a wall of people.  We thought it was 'OK'....glad we tried it, didn't go back for more.  I would liken the atmosphere much like a Minnesota state fair - food, shopping, music - all around good time. 

 

Twilight Twinkle Glow™

The evening continues with the Twilight Twinkle Glow™ part of the event.  This is where all balloons inflate, however only a few balloons equipped with special night flying equipment go up.  All the balloon teams are very friendly and will answer any questions you might have.  The "Hamlet" team (Hamlet is the world's largest flying pig) had not only a cool balloon, but pretty cool t-shirts...I asked "how do I get a t-shirt?", and they said I needed to be a crew member to be able to buy one....so I asked "how do I become a crew member?".  The response?  Hand out 10 of the team cards (kinda like baseball cards)...which I did, and I got my Hamlet t shirt!

Tim modeling my Hamlet t-shirt.

A gorgeous sunset becomes a backdrop for a fantastic gathering.  

On the ground it is a wonderful, surreal light show.  Balloon Glow all burns, when all the balloons fire their burners and light up at the same time are perhaps the most spectacular single moment in all of Balloon Fiesta. At some unknown cue, the balloons teams all flare up - almost pulsating...see the video at the bottom of this section for a sample!

AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show

As the balloons start deflating and the teams start the work of rolling them up and packing for the next day, the crowd is treated to a wonderful fireworks display.  I have to admit, as a dog owner, it had been a while since I had actually enjoyed fireworks, usually spending that hour or so in the basement until the boom booms are done.  

A great way to end a wonderful day!   Next up - Mass Ascension.

Have you ever seen an evening balloon display like this?  What is your favorite place to see fireworks?  Enjoyed this post? Never miss out on future posts by following us.