Cellpic Sunday – Remembering the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

October 10, 2023 – Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

When I read that the 2026 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta began yesterday, October 3, memories of my experience at the Fiesta three years ago came flooding back.

Tuesday, October 10 was the first of three incredible days at the Fiesta. There was a lot of activity on the field as the pilots and crews prepared their balloons for launch. The sky was filled with hot air balloons of all shapes, sizes and colors.

Balloons over Albuquerque

My brother volunteers as a launch director every year. They are called Zebras because of their black and white striped shirts. Their job is to make sure the balloons take off safely. I tried to keep up with him as he ran around the field giving the pilots the go ahead to launch their balloon.

I was exhausted and my feet hurt at the end of each day of the Fiesta but it was an experience I will never forget.

Shared with John’s Cellpic Sunday

25 thoughts on “Cellpic Sunday – Remembering the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta”

    1. Egidio, the Fiesta was so much fun to see and photograph. My brother has been a volunteer for many years. I spent one day working on one of the balloon crews. It was a lot of work but so much fun.

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  1. What a neat experience! I love the fun balloons. We have two hot air balloon festivals around here but, I’ve not seen those fun balloons here. Have you guys ridden in one? I haven’t and don’t plan on it. I’ll be on the ground looking up with my camera. 😊

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    1. Thanks John! My brother lives in Albuquerque and has been a volunteer the Fiesta for many years. He and his wife are part owners of one of the balloons. He tried for years to get me to come to a Fiesta. I’m so glad I went when I did!

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