Celebrate ballooning: 41st Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta – the most photographed event on earth

The New Mexico skies will again be the enchanting playground for hundreds of balloons at the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, a breathtaking color and design festival that gathers balloon enthusiasts and spectators from around the world.

The world-renowned event is a hit with kids of all ages as hundreds of hot air balloons add fabulous color to the New Mexico sky. Launching from the 365-acre Balloon Fiesta Park, this incredible event draws the attention of guests with mass ascensions and morning glows, flying competitions and special shaped balloon events, while a festival of activity takes place on the ground in the form of entertainment, food, fireworks and contests.

Due to the “box” pattern of wind currents, many guests have the pleasure of viewing balloons from their hotel room at some point during the event.

With 700 balloons, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the largest ballooning event on earth, the most photographed event on earth, and the largest annual international event held in the United States.

Here are some photoes of the last Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.