Glowdeo

Once again, it is Balloon Fiesta time in Albuquerque. It is the largest gathering of balloons and pilots in the world. For 9 days, balloons fill our skies in the early morning hours. At night, they glow by light of propane burners. “Glowdeo” was a name given to this truly magical, western rodeo like event.

The great thing about the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is that everyone is allowed on the field with the balloons. The pilots give away cards with the picture and name of their balloon and chat with everyone who stops by to say hello or ask a question. No viewing from the stands at this fiesta! This year there are over 600 balloons participating. It’s a bit less than in past years, but understandable with gas prices as they are today. The Fiesta furnishes the propane for all the balloonists to encourage them to make the trip. The Balloon Fiesta Park becomes the second largest city in New Mexico during these two weeks with hundreds of camping trailers, chase vehicles and tourists!

The week of the Fiesta also signals a change in the weather. Out from the closet come our sweaters and jackets. The heater gets switched on for the first time to take away the mornings chill. It’s sad to bid farewell to summer in the high desert. But how can one stay sad with hundreds of colorful balloons floating in the crisp autumn air?

If you'd like to see the video I made last year, click here.