I say this all the time but your videos always make me smile. It is just the genuine sense of family that each video exudes. Much appreciated, each and every time! Stay safe and happy travels.
Nice video but a few corrections. The referees are officially called zebras. No one can guarantee that the balloons are going to land right by your rig in that special lot. They go where the wind takes them. No one is allowed to come back and land on the field till all the balloons have taken off and the zebras clear it. There are very few days when the box works perfectly. There is no day that is restricted to only special shapes. There is a special shapes rodeo day but other balloons are also allowed to participate that day. So glad that you enjoyed fiesta! We have been ballooning for many years and have been volunteers at the balloon fiesta for a number of years. It is truly a special event!
Watching this brought back all the great memories of Fiesta. We brought 4 balloons, 25 crew and pilots from Michigan! It is such an amazing event, we’ve been there 4 times, the first, in 2000. I’ve been “crewing” for 36 years and a flight there is like no other. BTW, the “referees” are called Zebras. The event could not happen without them.❤
Hi. It was VERY COOL to meet you at the Meet and Greet Tuesday of Fiesta. We enjoy your videos very much. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us. We mentioned our daughter had just moved to Maine, and my wife is there now for the birth of a new grandchild.
It was so great to be able to meet you guys and LJMJ at the Vista. Your video hit all the highlights and lowlights everyone should see the Vista at least once.
Outstanding views. I am with Cory. John Carter of Mars is one of my favorites.. I must have seen it 4 or 5 times. TOTALLY underrated. Action, adventure, romance, comedy. What else is there? I still have all of Edgar Rice Burrough's Martian and Tarzan series books. The producers had plans to make a couple more. but or some reason, John Carter never got the press that it deserved, and the plans were shelved.
The 2023 Ballon Fiesta coincided with the annular eclipse, which drew in so many more people. The Saturday of the eclipse had over 100,000 people. There had never been that many people at Fiesta before. Yes, there are always a lot of people at Fiesta. But, 2023 had significantly more. Lines were the worst they’ve ever been. It shouldn’t be as bad next time. The next eclipse I think is in about 100 years. I’m glad you had a fun time in our city. Maybe next time we can get you on a balloon crew. That’s a whole new ball game.
Really appreciated the honesty in this video. Looks like a great event but I don’t like crowds so I’d probably do better camping out of the way and just watching the balloons! Thanks for such beautiful content!
Thank you for be so upfront and honest with the good and bad of Fiesta. I've seen LJMJ do Fiesta for th past several years, but I don't remember if they mentioned much, if any, bad things except maybe about the crowds. We've done Airventure at Oshkosh the past 2 summers and there's a lot of people there, but it is very well run and organized. We camp offsite because we need power to our rig to run the a/c for our pets. Oshkosh has hookup sites, but they are first come first serve and fill up weeks before the event. Since we come from Texas, getting one of those really isn't possible. Loved your photography and time lapse videos as always. Some of the best on the Tube! Safe travels.
I took a ballon ride several years ago. Taking off is great. But the landing can be a different story. We landed in a tree in a cemetery. My mother was watching the balloon from her house not knowing I was in the basket. When the balloon landed she drove to the sight seeing me in the basket. Let’s just say I got the look.
I lived in New Mexico for 28 years, 21 years with my wife, Dottie. I went for a day when it first started out. It was still in the parking lot at Winrock Center (a shopping mall on the east side of the city). It got big fast. It was awesome then and has gotten more popular over the years! It finally ended up where it is but it was still relatively easy to get into and out of. The breakfast burritos were something else. Everyone raved about them. I hope y'all were able to get over and try one while there. The event has grown into a major destination for many people. It's hard to believe how much it has grown from a handful of hot-air ballon enthusiasts led by Ben Abruzzo and Maxie Anderson in a mall parking lot in 1972 to what it is today. So glad y'all were able to really enjoy it this year!
The Ballon Fiesta is a must, our visit in 2019 was awesome, due to weather conditions the ballon’s didn’t fly everyday, we took advantage of the area - here are some, to keep in your back pocket - Santa Fe 2hrs north, on the way there or back stop in Meow Wolf interactive experience, just a little further north the town of Taso, Truth or Consequences (TRC) 2 hrs south cool town, local museum, hot spring, soak for an hour with a view of the Rio Grand,,, on the way back 1/2 way is San Antonio NM stop in at The Original Owl Bar (Famous Burger’s, former President’s have eaten there)
A must see uf at all possible 2018 was awesome the crowds are real we took it seriously and got there early watching the balloons start from a black sky is eye popping and when they hoover over you and can land sooo close respect for the pilots
Balloons in ABQ are a year round thing. Lived on the west side for a year ~25 years ago. Was pleasantly woken from sleep many a morning by the woosh of the burners from baloons flying over the back yard; one landed in the street in front of the house - exciting! 25 years ago, the crowds were not as bad still, everyone should experience Balloon Fiesta at least once, crowds or not and, go up on one too.
It was a blessing to finally meet face to face. You guys are the real deal and hope you will find your way to Lake Havasu. Safe travels friends! We will put our Balloon Fiesta video out in a couple weeks. Trying to get caught up. 😂 Blessings, Stan and Rhonda
Very nice compliment guys 😊 great talking with you as well! We will make it there one day ! Glad I’m not the only one with a late balloon fiesta video 🫣😂
We stayed in a VIP lot and didn’t have to stand in line to enter. We could also stand on the edge of the lot and see the whole thing. Nothing better than being on the field in early morning. I agree 3-4 days is plenty. Great photography.
So glad you folks got to see the sugar plums dancing in the clear blue Sky!!! Corey the night time photography and time lapse are as good as it gets!! I can almost close my eyes and actually immerse myself back in time.... Thanks from Pop's Mr Dink and myself... outstanding!! Travel safe, be smart and live life!
Ok wait, how does Layla look so grown up right now. I didn’t even know who she was at first. I’ve said this before but it always warms my heart to see your girls arm in arm & best friends. What a treasure!
We were there last year. It is something everybody should do at least once in their lifetime. We were right next to the field in the Airstream section. It was awesome being able to get up and step outside and sit in our chairs and observe them taking off and coming right over us.
I can't imagine 12 days at Balloon Fiesta. My wife and I went in 2022 and got 2 nights in the North lot which as you know is only a few hundred yards to the field. First morning it was raining so they had to cancel the launch. -( But second morning was clearing and it was the special shapes and cartoon characters day so that was great to see. Definitely recommend attending at least once and go ahead and pay the extra for the North lot for maybe 3 nights. Safe travels.
Great job. It looks amazing and it is on our bucket list. Thank you for the advice on staying and enjoying the balloon Fest. You gave me an idea for big events like this; Be nice if the locations could put all the solar/non-generator peeps in an area together so it could have a little more quiet area. Am I being silly? 🤣 We could go for several days to a week without external power. Water is a different need, since I need to rinse off each day. Thank you so much. Great job!
Went there two years ago during one of the rainiest weeks for the balloon festival. We got to help with a ballon team and watch it all up close and then follow and chase the balloons to pick up. A fantastic experience and glad you got to enjoy it.
we've been there in an rv for 14 days and would do the same again in before most arrive and leave after most have left its called retired a must see experience
We went in 2022. We were part of the Escapees Boomers and Balloons group. I was a trained crew member! It was definitely a highlight to be able to fulfill a bucket list item. We were also in the south lot. Our toy hauler back deck opened up to the field. My husband was able to take some magical photos, including a video of me on a ride with my pilot!!
I think the best parts of Albuquerque for me was crewing for a pilot friend all week. Being part of the pilot and crew side of the event. Getting to fly in the box. Meeting pilots and crew from all over the world. Watching our pilot get a key grab on one flight. Then the excitement of our team winning 19th place in the competition out of over 700 balloons. We also got to be part of the inflation crew for one of the gas balloons that took off that year on my balloon pilot husband's birthday. Finally, Balloon Fiesta Breakfast Burritos with green chile sauce. You cannot eat just one.
I’m flying out to ABQ this year to go to the Balloon Fiesta. I’m pretty lucky I can stay with my brother and SIL. The balloons fly right over their house. Still heading down to the park to enjoy glodeo and drones. Great video, as always! -JW
I agree - 12 days of being that packed in while being off grid - no thanks. I like people, but not crowds. If it was 6 days, then maybe ok. We did help a pilot friend do a glow one night - so fun!
Was there in 2017 for our 30th anniversary. Absolutely one of our favorite memories. If you haven’t gone, GO!! It’s not necessary to go every day. We stayed in Santa Fe away from the crowds and drove down for the events we thought we’d enjoy the most. Must see events; Mass Ascension and night glow. Yes, lots of traffic but it’s worth it. Not mentioned in this video: there is a great ballooning museum on site too. BTW: Santa Fe is a pretty great place to spend some time too.
One year Good Sam Samboree in April was at the balloon park and a huge number of balloons going up, balloon glow, etc., but nowhere near as many as you are seeing. We were all parked right in the main balloon park so did not have to travel around. And we did just the reverse, we left Albuquerque and drove up to Mesa Verde and then over to Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches.
I have lived in New Mexico all my life and have been to the Balloon Festival 2 times. The first time was with our church youth group as a chaperone and we never actually got in because of traffic. The second time was great. I was in the NMANG in Santa Fe and we was hosting a kinda like a open house of training facility for other Sergeant Majors and the last day it was planned and we had VIP parking up front. As stated only a few day is all you need. If you are ever in southern NM during September go to the White Sands Balloon event it is just a weekend and not as many balloons but you can get up close and less hectic.
I have been there twice. So worth going, insanity and all. I remember just standing and watching, I had tears in my eyes from being so overwhelmed and filled with joy. Thanks for showing this and good blessings to you all.
In 2016 we knew about the hard time getting a campsite but decided to give it a try anyways. We pulled into one of the campgrounds and asked if they had a site for 2 nights and were surprised they did. The guy next to us ran his generator constantly which was a bummer. Because I had previously crewed on my neighbors balloon in Illinois I didn't need to pay admission to get up close but just watched outside the fence at the festivities. Big time fun.
Fiesta is a week long but if just one day to aim for is one of the two Special Shapes days at the end. This was enough for me and yes, it was an experience you never forget, worth every penny. Don't be put off by the early start as it really is special and worth it. In terms of visiting from outwith the complex just in a car, be already used to getting up early then on the day go down ultra early in the pitch dark before the first trial balloon. Get yourself breakfasted and toileted and stand in among ( yes in among ) the special balloons as they inflate. Your jaw will not stop hanging open in amazement and your camera will not stop clicking. Towards mid morning leave the site perhaps to do something else ( I went to Sandia mountains with the cable car and chairlifts ). In the evening come back for a repeat of the morning launch they call the "Glowdeo", which is again amazing with the novel twist of lighting effects from burners and other things. Then there's fireworks and maybe a band plays. Whereas the two times you arrive to park on site are relatively easy, going home time late at night is really really slow and for a long way beyond the event grounds. You just have to resign yourself to this. So you arrive back at your stay feeling tired but it will have been worth it. The only way around it is to stay in an RV on site and at great expense. Nearest hotel is a good half hour walk plus and is it safe, I have no idea. Its a bucket list thing to do. One way or another break a leg to do it. Pick a Special Shapes Day.
Not gonna lie, I personally appreciate you keeping real and honest and exposing the "other" side of the festival. A number of years ago we saw a miniature version of something like this and it is a once in a lifetime event. But your real review and honest opinion are greatly appreciated!!!!
We went for the 50th anniversary of the Balloon Fiesta. We were there with the Airstream International Club and had an ideal place to camp. We were just above the main part of the Fiesta where the balloons lift off. We were so close that we could walk back to our Airstream and use our own restroom, etc. We loved it. It was spectacular. We only stayed about 4 days which was perfect. No entrance gates for us. We also had a back gate so we could leave if we wanted to. We made lots of friends and we were so glad we got to go. No generators, by the way.
Good advice, at the 2022 fiesta we arrived on Wed and stayed 4 nights till Sunday in the North Lot Campground (parking lot). Tickets sell out fast on opening day in January for the Oct fiesta. Be ready, as they sell out in 20minutes for the North Lot. We were very close to the entrance gates and had a great elevated view of the drone show at night. 2022 wasn't a great year as it was cloudy every day, except Sunday. Our solar couldn't work, and it rained part of one day, and the night of the drone show. However we didn't experience any mud as you mentioned. We could easily leave and return to our RV with our toad anytime, but we timed things to avoid traffic during the busy times. We drove over to the balloon museum on the south side one day, and I drove over to the south side one day to meet Eric of RV Miles. Although our weather wasn't great, the final day was fantastic with clear skies. It's definitely a bucket list event everyone should see.
My kids grew up around the Football Hall of Fame. They have a balloon festival every year. They would fly over the house and sometimes landed right nearby.And the kids got to see that we would always chase after them if we knew they were landing nearby. Our one dog always heard them before we did and would start howling 😂 Karen and Greg
The best video of the Balloon Festival I've seen. Congrats to you and the FOS crew. Safe travels and I hope to run into you on the road (not literally).
Thanks for taking me there! As you may have noticed in your other videos comments this year my wife and I were at many of the same areas of the country, seemingly just ahead of your visits with LJMJ. We were at Mt. Rushmore, Craters of the Moon, Yellowstone and surrounding areas, Mesa Verde and Four Corners too. We had to begin our journey home short of the Balloon Fiesta for other scheduled events in our lives. I am so glad you added some of the reasons to consider for where better to park and how long a stay! It's on the list for this years journey through the southwest! Safe travels.
Thanks for the balanced perspective on the Fiesta! Everything we've heard has been glowingly positive without any recognition of the challenges involved. We believe that it's important to always give viewers a realistic picture and not gloss over difficulties (while not making them out to be worse than they are for clicks either). This will certainly help us to better plan our trip to the Fiesta in a few years!
Loved the video! 100% agree regarding too many people! Jeff and I prefer less crowds. The balloon festival is beautiful even still! There is a smaller balloon festival Jeff and I did last year in Statesville, NC!
Thank you for filming this!! Wow! We floated with a group over the AZ desert many years ago and it was a thrill of a lifetime. At 6’2.5”, I remember the burner was very hot on my head. Watched Jack rabbits running and saw the traces of the old wagon trails. You brought back so many memories. 😁
I went in 2001, security was extra difficult after 9/11. It was worth it! My favorite was the special shapes. The locals even kept the kids out of school and brought them! The event is a well oiled machine! Highly recommend it!
We went in 2022 and stayed at the VIP North Lot. Still boondocking in a parking lot, but it was an easy walk into the launch field. They also had water and sewer service trucks come right to your rig for a reasonable fee. You definitely have to book those onsite lots early though. Unfortunately we had a lot of rain that year so they didn’t fly many of the days.
Loved your video. You did capture the essence of the Fiesta very well. Went there in 2019, but not in RV. Only stayed for 5 days. Hope to go someday with RV.
Thank you for sharing a fantastic family adventure with us. Now I will be researching where, when and mostly how to attend this event in person. It was nice to hear the daughters thoughts.
Rv sites have changed and the North lot no longer exists. This means significantly less RV spots for future years. The RV reservation process was changed this year and caused a lot of issues, with site crashes and incorrect links being sent out. Best of luck to everyone attempting to get sites for 2025! Thanks for the tips and review.
We went to collage at the University of Albuquerque between 1976-1980 on the west mesa. The Fiesta used to be in an unmarked field just north of Albuquerque. The balloons would sometimes land on the university. We took our daughter to it on her twentieth birthday and got her a ride on a balloon. It’s amazing.
Love this video, the Albuquerque Balloon Festival has always been something we’d like to attend so thanks for the tips! Our town in SC had a balloon festival for many years and we loved it. Sometimes we would go the the area for mass ascensions or evening glows. Other times we could watch them fly over our house which drove our Scottish Terrier crazy. We think she thought the Martians were invading. She kept us safe tho by running and barking as she stared up at them. When they were no longer in view she’d return to the patio with a big sigh, she’d saved us again. Several times balloons landed in our neighborhood. So fun!! Glad you were able to attend the big show! Safe travels!
Great information to know. We have never been, but definitely plan to one day. I don't think we would stay the emtire 12 days. I like the idea of 3-5 days.
I had an awesome time at the balloon fiesta! Like you said it was magical and yes, lots of people!!! It was a great time and I actually got to meet you guys there which was a definite highlight of my stay in Albuquerque. I am a travel nurse and I am still here!!!
When I lived outside of Albany Oregon, we had hot air balloons go over our house almost every weekend during the summer. Our dogs hated the sound from them. One time a balloon almost landed on our roof. They asked us if they could land in our field. They were finally able to catch an updraft. That made them happy and us too. No damage to our brand new house we had just finished building. They are beautiful to watch.
I would touch base on safety, keeping kids close. Drinking can get out of hand. Be sure you check out emergency exits and sites where they can handle injuries or emergencies. Have fun and be safe out there😊
I remember convincing my wife to take our boys when they were young to the Clovis Ca Balloon Fest. It was such an amazing experience. Talking about the ultimate sunrise & donuts, this was it. We loved how you literally can just walk around all of the balloons as they’re inflating. BucketList item y’all. Go to a balloon festival. Trust me.
Just realized you got Rhonda going up on her first hot air balloon ride ever👍 12:29 I see me and our crew on the ground 😂got the opportunity to crew this year! What a blast 💥 Doing it again next year too 👏 But only half the time, lol
I was lucky enough to be invited to ride in a balloon 35 years ago, a must do if you can get it done, I was expected to help with inflating the envelope and help once we landed , very much a wonderful experience even in the winter. I hope you all 4 get to experience a balloon ride !!
We just had a hot air 🎈 accident on south end of city I live in where a gust of wind took that balloon, which was trying to land in a field, right into power lines, the balloon was severed from the basket and the basket dropped 30 ft, started on fire and balloon took off and was found 3 miles away in some trees. The 3 people in the basket had minor injuries and the fire department got the grass fire out. It was all caught on traffic cameras. That balloon flew over my house many times and I hope the owner is able to get it flying again. Very cool to watch.
Taking our grandaughter was the best. She was young enough that we got a tandem bike to go with papa to get around. One of the pilots was a teacher and gave her a great experience. She plopped her into the basket and had her be a part of packing it back up. I think she was 6 or 7? Another negative is the crime. You really have to be careful
We live in Albuquerque and enjoy the balloons every year. Dogs and horses get nervous with the balloons overhead. On LJMJ didn't Corry catch a balloon basket?
The crowds of people can be a bit much. The festival is enjoyable however, I think we wouldn't of stayed there 12 days either. We would have stayed close at a friends place with the rig, and just commuted in to see the events. Hey early rising, and no coffee, or donuts.....what gives..... (teasing)! Please tell me you enjoyed an amazing true Mexican meal while in NM.
I say this all the time but your videos always make me smile. It is just the genuine sense of family that each video exudes. Much appreciated, each and every time! Stay safe and happy travels.
Congratulations coming in the top 3 of RV Video shows on UA-cam ... You rock.
Nice video but a few corrections. The referees are officially called zebras. No one can guarantee that the balloons are going to land right by your rig in that special lot. They go where the wind takes them. No one is allowed to come back and land on the field till all the balloons have taken off and the zebras clear it. There are very few days when the box works perfectly. There is no day that is restricted to only special shapes. There is a special shapes rodeo day but other balloons are also allowed to participate that day. So glad that you enjoyed fiesta! We have been ballooning for many years and have been volunteers at the balloon fiesta for a number of years. It is truly a special event!
Watching this brought back all the great memories of Fiesta. We brought 4 balloons, 25 crew and pilots from Michigan! It is such an amazing event, we’ve been there 4 times, the first, in 2000. I’ve been “crewing” for 36 years and a flight there is like no other. BTW, the “referees” are called Zebras. The event could not happen without them.❤
Hi. It was VERY COOL to meet you at the Meet and Greet Tuesday of Fiesta. We enjoy your videos very much. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us. We mentioned our daughter had just moved to Maine, and my wife is there now for the birth of a new grandchild.
It was so great to be able to meet you guys and LJMJ at the Vista. Your video hit all the highlights and lowlights everyone should see the Vista at least once.
Outstanding views. I am with Cory. John Carter of Mars is one of my favorites.. I must have seen it 4 or 5 times. TOTALLY underrated. Action, adventure, romance, comedy. What else is there? I still have all of Edgar Rice Burrough's Martian and Tarzan series books. The producers had plans to make a couple more. but or some reason, John Carter never got the press that it deserved, and the plans were shelved.
The 2023 Ballon Fiesta coincided with the annular eclipse, which drew in so many more people. The Saturday of the eclipse had over 100,000 people. There had never been that many people at Fiesta before. Yes, there are always a lot of people at Fiesta. But, 2023 had significantly more. Lines were the worst they’ve ever been. It shouldn’t be as bad next time. The next eclipse I think is in about 100 years. I’m glad you had a fun time in our city. Maybe next time we can get you on a balloon crew. That’s a whole new ball game.
Really appreciated the honesty in this video. Looks like a great event but I don’t like crowds so I’d probably do better camping out of the way and just watching the balloons! Thanks for such beautiful content!
Thank you for be so upfront and honest with the good and bad of Fiesta. I've seen LJMJ do Fiesta for th past several years, but I don't remember if they mentioned much, if any, bad things except maybe about the crowds. We've done Airventure at Oshkosh the past 2 summers and there's a lot of people there, but it is very well run and organized. We camp offsite because we need power to our rig to run the a/c for our pets. Oshkosh has hookup sites, but they are first come first serve and fill up weeks before the event. Since we come from Texas, getting one of those really isn't possible. Loved your photography and time lapse videos as always. Some of the best on the Tube! Safe travels.
I have no idea how anyone can boondock for that long on one water tank. Bless you…I couldn't do it.
agree. one tank & 4 adults. they are an inspiration.
@@MsSunstoned You can have fresh water brought right to your RV as well as have your tanks dumped no problem.
I took a ballon ride several years ago. Taking off is great. But the landing can be a different story. We landed in a tree in a cemetery. My mother was watching the balloon from her house not knowing I was in the basket. When the balloon landed she drove to the sight seeing me in the basket. Let’s just say I got the look.
I lived in New Mexico for 28 years, 21 years with my wife, Dottie. I went for a day when it first started out. It was still in the parking lot at Winrock Center (a shopping mall on the east side of the city). It got big fast. It was awesome then and has gotten more popular over the years! It finally ended up where it is but it was still relatively easy to get into and out of. The breakfast burritos were something else. Everyone raved about them. I hope y'all were able to get over and try one while there. The event has grown into a major destination for many people. It's hard to believe how much it has grown from a handful of hot-air ballon enthusiasts led by Ben Abruzzo and Maxie Anderson in a mall parking lot in 1972 to what it is today. So glad y'all were able to really enjoy it this year!
The Ballon Fiesta is a must, our visit in 2019 was awesome, due to weather conditions the ballon’s didn’t fly everyday, we took advantage of the area - here are some, to keep in your back pocket - Santa Fe 2hrs north, on the way there or back stop in Meow Wolf interactive experience, just a little further north the town of Taso, Truth or Consequences (TRC) 2 hrs south cool town, local museum, hot spring, soak for an hour with a view of the Rio Grand,,, on the way back 1/2 way is San Antonio NM stop in at The Original Owl Bar (Famous Burger’s, former President’s have eaten there)
Great suggestions! Thank you 🙌
A must see uf at all possible 2018 was awesome the crowds are real we took it seriously and got there early watching the balloons start from a black sky is eye popping and when they hoover over you and can land sooo close respect for the pilots
Balloons in ABQ are a year round thing. Lived on the west side for a year ~25 years ago. Was pleasantly woken from sleep many a morning by the woosh of the burners from baloons flying over the back yard; one landed in the street in front of the house - exciting! 25 years ago, the crowds were not as bad still, everyone should experience Balloon Fiesta at least once, crowds or not and, go up on one too.
I already knew I wouldn’t be going because of the crowds so I’m super grateful for getting to see it through your eyes. Thanks for the gorgeous shots!
It was a blessing to finally meet face to face. You guys are the real deal and hope you will find your way to Lake Havasu. Safe travels friends! We will put our Balloon Fiesta video out in a couple weeks. Trying to get caught up. 😂 Blessings, Stan and Rhonda
Very nice compliment guys 😊 great talking with you as well! We will make it there one day ! Glad I’m not the only one with a late balloon fiesta video 🫣😂
We stayed in a VIP lot and didn’t have to stand in line to enter. We could also stand on the edge of the lot and see the whole thing. Nothing better than being on the field in early morning. I agree 3-4 days is plenty. Great photography.
It’s Shiprock. No space. I live 20 miles from it. See from a distance nearly every day!!
I am peopled out just watching this! I couldn’t have done 12 days. Y’all are rockstars!
So glad you folks got to see the sugar plums dancing in the clear blue Sky!!! Corey the night time photography and time lapse are as good as it gets!! I can almost close my eyes and actually immerse myself back in time.... Thanks from Pop's Mr Dink and myself... outstanding!! Travel safe, be smart and live life!
Ok wait, how does Layla look so grown up right now. I didn’t even know who she was at first. I’ve said this before but it always warms my heart to see your girls arm in arm & best friends. What a treasure!
Same!
I said the same thing. I thought it was 20 something young woman they ran into. Your kids are great humans.
We were there last year. It is something everybody should do at least once in their lifetime. We were right next to the field in the Airstream section. It was awesome being able to get up and step outside and sit in our chairs and observe them taking off and coming right over us.
Awesome photography as usual!
12 days is a long time to dry camp!
Up Up and away in my beautiful balloon balloooon!! Great video!!!
I can't imagine 12 days at Balloon Fiesta. My wife and I went in 2022 and got 2 nights in the North lot which as you know is only a few hundred yards to the field. First morning it was raining so they had to cancel the launch. -( But second morning was clearing and it was the special shapes and cartoon characters day so that was great to see. Definitely recommend attending at least once and go ahead and pay the extra for the North lot for maybe 3 nights. Safe travels.
Great job. It looks amazing and it is on our bucket list. Thank you for the advice on staying and enjoying the balloon Fest. You gave me an idea for big events like this; Be nice if the locations could put all the solar/non-generator peeps in an area together so it could have a little more quiet area. Am I being silly? 🤣 We could go for several days to a week without external power. Water is a different need, since I need to rinse off each day. Thank you so much. Great job!
Went there two years ago during one of the rainiest weeks for the balloon festival. We got to help with a ballon team and watch it all up close and then follow and chase the balloons to pick up. A fantastic experience and glad you got to enjoy it.
we've been there in an rv for 14 days and would do the same again in before most arrive and leave after most have left its called retired a must see experience
We did the same, waited until everyone had left then we did!
We went in 2022. We were part of the Escapees Boomers and Balloons group. I was a trained crew member! It was definitely a highlight to be able to fulfill a bucket list item. We were also in the south lot. Our toy hauler back deck opened up to the field. My husband was able to take some magical photos, including a video of me on a ride with my pilot!!
I think the best parts of Albuquerque for me was crewing for a pilot friend all week. Being part of the pilot and crew side of the event. Getting to fly in the box. Meeting pilots and crew from all over the world. Watching our pilot get a key grab on one flight. Then the excitement of our team winning 19th place in the competition out of over 700 balloons. We also got to be part of the inflation crew for one of the gas balloons that took off that year on my balloon pilot husband's birthday. Finally, Balloon Fiesta Breakfast Burritos with green chile sauce. You cannot eat just one.
I’m flying out to ABQ this year to go to the Balloon Fiesta. I’m pretty lucky I can stay with my brother and SIL. The balloons fly right over their house. Still heading down to the park to enjoy glodeo and drones. Great video, as always!
-JW
I agree - 12 days of being that packed in while being off grid - no thanks. I like people, but not crowds. If it was 6 days, then maybe ok. We did help a pilot friend do a glow one night - so fun!
Was there in 2017 for our 30th anniversary. Absolutely one of our favorite memories. If you haven’t gone, GO!! It’s not necessary to go every day. We stayed in Santa Fe away from the crowds and drove down for the events we thought we’d enjoy the most.
Must see events; Mass Ascension and night glow. Yes, lots of traffic but it’s worth it. Not mentioned in this video: there is a great ballooning museum on site too.
BTW: Santa Fe is a pretty great place to spend some time too.
One year Good Sam Samboree in April was at the balloon park and a huge number of balloons going up, balloon glow, etc., but nowhere near as many as you are seeing. We were all parked right in the main balloon park so did not have to travel around. And we did just the reverse, we left Albuquerque and drove up to Mesa Verde and then over to Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches.
I have lived in New Mexico all my life and have been to the Balloon Festival 2 times. The first time was with our church youth group as a chaperone and we never actually got in because of traffic. The second time was great. I was in the NMANG in Santa Fe and we was hosting a kinda like a open house of training facility for other Sergeant Majors and the last day it was planned and we had VIP parking up front. As stated only a few day is all you need. If you are ever in southern NM during September go to the White Sands Balloon event it is just a weekend and not as many balloons but you can get up close and less hectic.
I have been there twice. So worth going, insanity and all. I remember just standing and watching, I had tears in my eyes from being so overwhelmed and filled with joy. Thanks for showing this and good blessings to you all.
In 2016 we knew about the hard time getting a campsite but decided to give it a try anyways. We pulled into one of the campgrounds and asked if they had a site for 2 nights and were surprised they did. The guy next to us ran his generator constantly which was a bummer. Because I had previously crewed on my neighbors balloon in Illinois I didn't need to pay admission to get up close but just watched outside the fence at the festivities. Big time fun.
Fiesta is a week long but if just one day to aim for is one of the two Special Shapes days at the end. This was enough for me and yes, it was an experience you never forget, worth every penny. Don't be put off by the early start as it really is special and worth it.
In terms of visiting from outwith the complex just in a car, be already used to getting up early then on the day go down ultra early in the pitch dark before the first trial balloon. Get yourself breakfasted and toileted and stand in among ( yes in among ) the special balloons as they inflate. Your jaw will not stop hanging open in amazement and your camera will not stop clicking. Towards mid morning leave the site perhaps to do something else ( I went to Sandia mountains with the cable car and chairlifts ). In the evening come back for a repeat of the morning launch they call the "Glowdeo", which is again amazing with the novel twist of lighting effects from burners and other things. Then there's fireworks and maybe a band plays.
Whereas the two times you arrive to park on site are relatively easy, going home time late at night is really really slow and for a long way beyond the event grounds. You just have to resign yourself to this. So you arrive back at your stay feeling tired but it will have been worth it. The only way around it is to stay in an RV on site and at great expense.
Nearest hotel is a good half hour walk plus and is it safe, I have no idea.
Its a bucket list thing to do. One way or another break a leg to do it. Pick a Special Shapes Day.
Not gonna lie, I personally appreciate you keeping real and honest and exposing the "other" side of the festival. A number of years ago we saw a miniature version of something like this and it is a once in a lifetime event. But your real review and honest opinion are greatly appreciated!!!!
We went for the 50th anniversary of the Balloon Fiesta. We were there with the Airstream International Club and had an ideal place to camp. We were just above the main part of the Fiesta where the balloons lift off. We were so close that we could walk back to our Airstream and use our own restroom, etc. We loved it. It was spectacular. We only stayed about 4 days which was perfect. No entrance gates for us. We also had a back gate so we could leave if we wanted to. We made lots of friends and we were so glad we got to go. No generators, by the way.
What beautiful daughters
The crowds look crazy, but the festival looks so amazing and so worth it. Thanks for your honesty. Safe Travels.
Good advice, at the 2022 fiesta we arrived on Wed and stayed 4 nights till Sunday in the North Lot Campground (parking lot). Tickets sell out fast on opening day in January for the Oct fiesta. Be ready, as they sell out in 20minutes for the North Lot. We were very close to the entrance gates and had a great elevated view of the drone show at night. 2022 wasn't a great year as it was cloudy every day, except Sunday. Our solar couldn't work, and it rained part of one day, and the night of the drone show. However we didn't experience any mud as you mentioned. We could easily leave and return to our RV with our toad anytime, but we timed things to avoid traffic during the busy times. We drove over to the balloon museum on the south side one day, and I drove over to the south side one day to meet Eric of RV Miles. Although our weather wasn't great, the final day was fantastic with clear skies. It's definitely a bucket list event everyone should see.
My kids grew up around the Football Hall of Fame. They have a balloon festival every year. They would fly over the house and sometimes landed right nearby.And the kids got to see that we would always chase after them if we knew they were landing nearby. Our one dog always heard them before we did and would start howling 😂 Karen and Greg
The best video of the Balloon Festival I've seen. Congrats to you and the FOS crew. Safe travels and I hope to run into you on the road (not literally).
Thanks for taking me there! As you may have noticed in your other videos comments this year my wife and I were at many of the same areas of the country, seemingly just ahead of your visits with LJMJ. We were at Mt. Rushmore, Craters of the Moon, Yellowstone and surrounding areas, Mesa Verde and Four Corners too. We had to begin our journey home short of the Balloon Fiesta for other scheduled events in our lives. I am so glad you added some of the reasons to consider for where better to park and how long a stay! It's on the list for this years journey through the southwest! Safe travels.
It would be cool if Grand Designs had a ballon in shape of a trailer that would be very cool maybe next year.
That would be a Grand Design for sure!
Thanks for the balanced perspective on the Fiesta! Everything we've heard has been glowingly positive without any recognition of the challenges involved. We believe that it's important to always give viewers a realistic picture and not gloss over difficulties (while not making them out to be worse than they are for clicks either). This will certainly help us to better plan our trip to the Fiesta in a few years!
Loved the video! 100% agree regarding too many people! Jeff and I prefer less crowds. The balloon festival is beautiful even still! There is a smaller balloon festival Jeff and I did last year in Statesville, NC!
John Carter is one of our favorites, "Virginia Dotar Sojat!" Lone Ranger was great too. Two excellent movies that critics were so WRONG about.
Thank you for filming this!! Wow! We floated with a group over the AZ desert many years ago and it was a thrill of a lifetime. At 6’2.5”, I remember the burner was very hot on my head. Watched Jack rabbits running and saw the traces of the old wagon trails. You brought back so many memories. 😁
I went in 2001, security was extra difficult after 9/11. It was worth it! My favorite was the special shapes. The locals even kept the kids out of school and brought them! The event is a well oiled machine! Highly recommend it!
We went in 2022 and stayed at the VIP North Lot. Still boondocking in a parking lot, but it was an easy walk into the launch field. They also had water and sewer service trucks come right to your rig for a reasonable fee. You definitely have to book those onsite lots early though.
Unfortunately we had a lot of rain that year so they didn’t fly many of the days.
Loved your video. You did capture the essence of the Fiesta very well. Went there in 2019, but not in RV. Only stayed for 5 days. Hope to go someday with RV.
Thank you for sharing a fantastic family adventure with us. Now I will be researching where, when and mostly how to attend this event in person. It was nice to hear the daughters thoughts.
Thank you for sharing all sides of this event and not just the roses. Enjoyed it.
Rv sites have changed and the North lot no longer exists. This means significantly less RV spots for future years. The RV reservation process was changed this year and caused a lot of issues, with site crashes and incorrect links being sent out. Best of luck to everyone attempting to get sites for 2025! Thanks for the tips and review.
We went to collage at the University of Albuquerque between 1976-1980 on the west mesa. The Fiesta used to be in an unmarked field just north of Albuquerque. The balloons would sometimes land on the university. We took our daughter to it on her twentieth birthday and got her a ride on a balloon. It’s amazing.
Love this video, the Albuquerque Balloon Festival has always been something we’d like to attend so thanks for the tips! Our town in SC had a balloon festival for many years and we loved it. Sometimes we would go the the area for mass ascensions or evening glows. Other times we could watch them fly over our house which drove our Scottish Terrier crazy. We think she thought the Martians were invading. She kept us safe tho by running and barking as she stared up at them. When they were no longer in view she’d return to the patio with a big sigh, she’d saved us again. Several times balloons landed in our neighborhood. So fun!! Glad you were able to attend the big show! Safe travels!
I lived in ABQ for 13 years. I haven't been back in over 8 years but I'm going this year! COME, it's always worth it!
Great video thanks for the honesty of the festival....been thinking about going for years.
Valió la pena esperar el vídeo sencillamente hermoso fuerte abrazo muchachos
Great information to know. We have never been, but definitely plan to one day. I don't think we would stay the emtire 12 days. I like the idea of 3-5 days.
I had an awesome time at the balloon fiesta! Like you said it was magical and yes, lots of people!!! It was a great time and I actually got to meet you guys there which was a definite highlight of my stay in Albuquerque. I am a travel nurse and I am still here!!!
When I lived outside of Albany Oregon, we had hot air balloons go over our house almost every weekend during the summer. Our dogs hated the sound from them. One time a balloon almost landed on our roof. They asked us if they could land in our field. They were finally able to catch an updraft. That made them happy and us too. No damage to our brand new house we had just finished building. They are beautiful to watch.
I would touch base on safety, keeping kids close. Drinking can get out of hand. Be sure you check out emergency exits and sites where they can handle injuries or emergencies. Have fun and be safe out there😊
I remember convincing my wife to take our boys when they were young to the Clovis Ca Balloon Fest. It was such an amazing experience. Talking about the ultimate sunrise & donuts, this was it. We loved how you literally can just walk around all of the balloons as they’re inflating. BucketList item y’all. Go to a balloon festival. Trust me.
I'll just keep watching your video...😂😂
the drone show looked awesome
Awesome episode!! Absolutely incredible.
Omg! Just saw you on rt 75 towards North Port!
Love your channel!🚗
Just realized you got Rhonda going up on her first hot air balloon ride ever👍 12:29 I see me and our crew on the ground 😂got the opportunity to crew this year! What a blast 💥 Doing it again next year too 👏 But only half the time, lol
We were there in 2021 in the Presidential lot to celebrate my retirement! The Balloon Fiesta is a spectacular event!
We would love to go and experience the balloons! Even the crows give it a vibe like no other!
Wow! Just beautiful. We are adding this to our bucket list. Thanks
I was lucky enough to be invited to ride in a balloon 35 years ago, a must do if you can get it done, I was expected to help with inflating the envelope and help once we landed , very much a wonderful experience even in the winter. I hope you all 4 get to experience a balloon ride !!
great video and they are beautiful to watch.!! have a good evening and weekend. hope someday to see it in person..
We just had a hot air 🎈 accident on south end of city I live in where a gust of wind took that balloon, which was trying to land in a field, right into power lines, the balloon was severed from the basket and the basket dropped 30 ft, started on fire and balloon took off and was found 3 miles away in some trees. The 3 people in the basket had minor injuries and the fire department got the grass fire out. It was all caught on traffic cameras. That balloon flew over my house many times and I hope the owner is able to get it flying again. Very cool to watch.
Tip! If you go with the XSCAPERS most of us are fulltime boondockers so not many generators buttt you may be hit by a balloon
Makes our Great Falls Balloon Festival in Lewiston look miniscule.
The eclipse is April 8. If you’re only staying 12 days, won’t you miss it? Or maybe I misunderstood.
This was the eclipse from last year.
Was there in 1987 or 1988 and wasn't nearly as crowded as now and was very open. Had a blast.
Taking our grandaughter was the best. She was young enough that we got a tandem bike to go with papa to get around. One of the pilots was a teacher and gave her a great experience. She plopped her into the basket and had her be a part of packing it back up. I think she was 6 or 7? Another negative is the crime. You really have to be careful
Saw several of the same shape balloons as we saw in 2015. We saw from the grounds twice and twice from the campground.
If your ever in Michigan and want to ride, look up Sky Adventures.
We live in Albuquerque and enjoy the balloons every year. Dogs and horses get nervous with the balloons overhead. On LJMJ didn't Corry catch a balloon basket?
Another great video.
Pagosa springs has a great ballon fest in the summer
We were trying to see if we could find ourselves in your video lol. We will always remember the Fiesta as the first time we met you 😘
Stayed in VIP North for 3 nights. Was perfect! Sadly this lot has been closed.
The crowds of people can be a bit much. The festival is enjoyable however, I think we wouldn't of stayed there 12 days either. We would have stayed close at a friends place with the rig, and just commuted in to see the events.
Hey early rising, and no coffee, or donuts.....what gives..... (teasing)!
Please tell me you enjoyed an amazing true Mexican meal while in NM.
Incredible event and footage.
I would to meet you all in a couple of years when we get started. I follow Nate and Marissa too.
This is on my wife’s and my bucket list, pretty cool.
We stayed in the North VIP lot walked about 100 yards no lines and it was very nice
Thank you. Blessings
I think it would be great if you guys could get a factory tour of the ballons being made.
So awesome
Love John Carter, would love to do the balloon festival.